AN archaeological expert formerly based in Oxford has taken over as chief executive of York Archaeological Trust (YAT).

David Jennings, former chief executive of archaeology and heritage practice Oxford Archaeology, has been appointed following the retirement of John Walker at the end of March.

The trust’s York-based visitor attractions comprise the world-famous JORVIK Viking Centre and annual JORVIK Viking Festival; DIG: An Archaeological Adventure; medieval townhouse Barley Hall; Micklegate Bar Museum and Yorkshire Medieval Festival.

Mr Jennings said: “I am delighted to be given the opportunity to lead the trust in the next phase of its development; to bring its unique combination of archaeological expertise and world-class heritage experiences to wider audiences in the UK and beyond.”