Steve Slater has taken over as the interim chief executive of Cheltenham Borough Homes.

He replaces Paul Stephenson, who has retired after 15 years with the company.

Mr Slater said he was proud to take up the position with his predecessor leaving CBH in a strong position.

He said: "CBH demonstrated its adaptability and resilience during the period of lockdown, working closely with Cheltenham Borough Council for the benefit of both customers and the wider community and still is.

"Great customer service is our ultimate top priority. We will be aiming to take our customer service on to an even higher level of excellence.

"Our ability to consistently deliver high-quality services, which continue to receive high levels of satisfaction from customers during a period of several years of unprecedented change for the housing sector, is testament to the incredible colleagues that work here."

He continued: "Our people are the beating heart of CBH. They see the person, not just a tenancy and they are trusted, friendly faces in communities across the town.

"Our future for the next three years is set out in our revised Business Plan and is clearly aligned to Cheltenham Borough Council's aims.

"Our vision and three aims remain the same - we want to make Cheltenham a better place to live by providing great homes, building strong communities with inspired people."

Mr Stephenson said the role had be "my honour and privilege".

He said: "My life at CBH has involved so many people and partners who have supported us and understand the important of the role we cary out.

"More than ever, we need to support those people who are experiencing negative impacts and provide hope for the future and the potential to develop personal and community resilience."