A YORK man has been appointed to the helm of a national health care organisation.

Roger Holmes, previously chief executive of the Royal Mint, has been appointed chief executive of St John Ambulance, Priory of England and the Islands.

Mr Holmes, whose parents both come from York and who has a house in the city, has joined the organisation at a challenging time.

Speaking of his new role, he said: "I join St John Ambulance at a very exciting time, when the charity launches into its new strategic vision.

"Over the next five years it will be a priority for me to guide and lead the charity to achieve its vision of increasing the number of people trained in first aid, retaining current members, while also recruiting new people to the organisation, and developing its caring and transport services. The charity's young volunteers will play a vital role in achieving this vision and I look forward to involving them in shaping the future direction of the organisation."

Mr Holmes joins St John Ambulance from the Royal Mint where he was chief executive from 1993. Prior to 1993, he held senior positions at director level at Chloride Group, Dunlop Holdings Plc, ICL Plc, Mercury Communications Ltd, and British Leyland Plc.

Before his corporate and commercial life he worked in the UK Civil Service and reached a senior post within the DTI.

He was appointed a Companion of the Order of the Bath in the 2002 New Year Honours.

Announcing his appointment, Baroness Emerton, St John Ambulance chief commander, said: "Roger will bring a good blend of commercial and civil service experience to St. John Ambulance, helping the organisation to fulfil its charitable mission. We all look forward to working with him."

Lewis Martin retires next month after holding the post of chief executive for six-and-a-half years.

Updated: 11:02 Tuesday, January 22, 2002