New tourism chief for key year in southern Scotland

Mr Hope-Jones said he was looking forward to taking up the role.

“I’m extremely proud to call the south of Scotland my home and I never fail to be blown away by the region’s incredible appeal as a place to visit, whether that’s from within the UK or further afield,” he said.

“It is a huge honour to be given this opportunity to help the area achieve its limitless potential as a year-round visitor destination.

“The SSDA has been doing a great job supporting tourism and hospitality businesses in the region and I’m champing at the bit to get started and join such a great team.”