A charity offering free legal support for vulnerable people has appointed a former newspaper editor as its new boss.

David Powles, who was editor of the Eastern Daily Press for six years, has been appointed chief executive officer of Norfolk Community Law Service.

Mr Powles, of Hethersett, takes on his new role on May 1, succeeding Jane Basham, who retires at the end of April.

Sarah Blunden, the charity's chair, said: "David comes to us with excellent credentials and a strong relationship developed while he was at the EDP.

"He brings a wealth of management and communications expertise, along with an absolute commitment to Norfolk and the people who live here."

Father-of-two Mr Powles said: "I am delighted and incredibly proud to be given the chance to lead this fantastic charity, which does so much to help people access free legal advice when they need it.

"Access to justice and equality should not just be the preserve of those with the money to fund it."

Mr Powles edited the EDP from 2016 until September 2022.