A community group campaigning for a brighter, more accessible future for Cheltenham's quintessential Pump Room has appointed a new chairperson.

Bettina Carr-Allinson joins the pressure group Pittville Pump Room Revival (PPRR) to help ensure that Cheltenham's most important heritage building is preserved, developed, interpreted and promoted in a way that acknowledges its Grade I listed status and its significant place in Cheltenham's history.

Ms Carr-Allinson, one-time diplomat and founder of the European Youth Parliament, lives in Pittville and holds Germany's Order of Merit and the Freedom of the City of Athens.

She was European Woman of the Year in 1998, granted for her part in promoting democracy and international understanding across Europe.

"The Historic England-listed building, managed for Cheltenham Borough Council by The Cheltenham Trust, is open to the general public for an average of no more than five days a month," she said.

"Prioritising such a significant heritage site for office accommodation and private hire denies the tourist and casual visitor access to the very building which symbolises Cheltenham.

"We believe that commercial and heritage interests can be successfully combined, as they are in other spa towns, to offer visitors of all ages a unique experience, right through the year. I look forward to discussing the issue with the Trust's chairman."

Members of the public and community groups interested in PPRR's work can follow the debate by visiting www.pumproomrevival.com