After 34 years in the house-building industry, the regional managing director for Miller Homes North East, Patrick Arkle, will begin easing into retirement.

In preparation for this, the company confirmed the appointment of Ryan Lincoln as the new regional operations director.

Mr Arkle has supported Mr Lincoln in recent months in order to ensure a smooth transition.

Mr Arkle joined Cussins Homes in 1989. 10 years later this would be acquired by Miller Homes.

He has since worked his way up the ladder, from trainee to engineer, and to his current role of regional MD.

Divisional managing director, David McGrath said: "Patrick has demonstrated total commitment and passion to the business and his people throughout his tenure and has built an extremely successful operation.

“On behalf of all the Directors and the Board I’d like to thank him for his significant contribution to the business."

Mr Lincoln says he is 'extremely proud' to have been given the opportunity to take on such a role.

He said: “It has been a privilege to work alongside Patrick Arkle, who has been a great mentor for me personally and I aim to follow on from the great successes that he has delivered before me."

The company is delivering new homes across Durham, Tyne and Wear and Northumberland.