Former Thorpe Park boss Paul Kelly has been named the new chief executive of the British Association of Leisure Parks, Piers and Attractions (BALPPA).

Kelly is well known in the visitor attractions industry from his long service to Thorpe Park, where he began his career in 1988 after completing university studies in business.

He progressed through the ranks to become park manager in 1994 before moving on to become head of operations at London Eye in 1999. He was then appointed to a new business development role at Merlin Entertainments - owner of London Eye.

Kelly replaces outgoing CEO Jeremy Reed and it is hoped that he will bring stability to the role. Kelly is BALPPA's third CEO in 18 months following Reed and Martin Barratt.

BALPPA chair Adrian Mahon said: "Paul has been in the industry for most of his working life and brings to the role a wealth of practical experience in operations and commercial activities, from which our members will benefit.

"He's also had extensive experience dealing with politicians and local authorities and his expertise in this area will contribute significantly to BALPPA's lobbying activities."