WELLINGTON Town Council has appointed a new ‘open spaces manager’ as it prepares to take on new responsibilities from the bankruptcy-threatened Somerset Council.

Darren Hill, who began his career as an apprentice gardener working in Wellington Park, has now been put in charge of the town’s green spaces.

Mr Hill has previously worked for Somerset Council and the former Taunton Deane District Council in similar roles.

Mr Hill grew up locally, and in his work has been responsible for developing management plans for Wellington Park, including the delivery of a number of recent improvements.

He has also led on the park’s ‘Green Flag’ application process and the town’s Britain in Bloom applications for a number of years.

Commenting on the new appointment, Town Clerk Dave Farrow said: “We are delighted that Darren will be joining us. He brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role and we were particularly impressed with his passion for wanting the best for the town.”