ALCESTER is set to see a boost following the appointment of a new enterprise officer.

Carolyn Smith will be responsible for promoting the town and its surrounding villages and countryside, as well as increasing the membership of Alcester Chamber of Trade and Commerce (ACTC).

The part-time post has been initially funded for seven months by Advantage West Midlands' Market Town Initiative funding through the Advantage Alcester partnership and Stratford District Council.

Mrs Smith said she thought it was a fantastic area, with interesting and individual shops, services, food and accommodation as well as beautiful scenery.

"It will be a pleasure to promote it, particularly as I am a local resident and have first-hand experience of its attractions," she said.

Mrs Smith, who has lived in Wixford since 1996 with her husband and two daughters, was previously national PR Manager for the Countryside Agency in Cheltenham.

Her career includes experience in journalism and radio broadcasting, 15 years working in communications for various government departments, as well as a stint as publications editor to the Household of The Prince of Wales.

ACTC chairman Andy Mills said it was the first time Alcester had had a post dedicated to raising the profile of the town and its surrounding area.

"It's a real opportunity to make potential visitors, new businesses and investors aware of what we have to offer," he added.