JAMES Yeates is the new chief executive at Cats Protection.

He is currently chief veterinary officer at the RSPCA and will start on November 1 at the charity’s head office in Chelwood Gate.

The charity helps around 200,000 cats each year and Mr Yeates will lead efforts to expand its rehoming, neutering, education and advocacy work.

He said: “It is a great opportunity to join such an amazing organisation as Cats Protection and also a profound honour to join with such inspiring people, volunteers and staff.

“To be part of that is such a privilege.”

Linda Upson, chairman of Trustees said: “His extensive knowledge of the animal welfare sector, coupled with his love of cats, will make him a great addition.”