The Coalfields Regeneration Trust has appointed former MEP Linda McAvan as its new Chair of the Board of Trustees after a competitive interview process.

Since 1999, the Coalfields Regeneration Trust (CRT) charity has been dedicated to building prosperity and opportunity for the 5.7 million people living in former coalfield communities in England, Scotland and Wales.

Linda McAvan is the Executive Director for European Relations at the European Climate Foundation. Between 1998 and 2019, Linda served as the Labour MEP for Yorkshire & Humber.

She said: “Improving lives in our former coalfield communities has always been a subject close to my heart and I have seen the fantastic work being done by the Coalfields Regeneration Trust over many years.

Linda McAvan was a former MEP representing Yorkshire & Humber. Picture: European Union

“I am delighted and honoured to be joining the Coalfields Regeneration Trust and working with our communities and partners to continue the vital work to bring hope and new opportunities to some of the most deprived parts of the UK.

“I would also like to thank Peter McNestry for his many years of dedicated service and I look forward to building on the strong legacy he leaves behind.”

Coalfields Regeneration Trust appoints former MEP as chair of trustees