THE Malton-based Encephalitis Society has announced a new vice-president.

Tom Naylor-Leyland, from the Fitzwilliam Malton Estate and organiser of the Malton Food Lovers Festival, will lend his support to the charity, which was set up in the town in 1994 and now operates globally.

Dr Ava Easton, chief executive of The Encephalitis Society, said: “We are proud to be based in Malton from where we can provide support and help to those affected by encephalitis anywhere in the world.

“It is an excellent location where we can recruit good staff and operate as a charity without the big overheads that being elsewhere might burden us with.

“This means more of our charitable funds can go directly to helping those affected by encephalitis.

“Both the society and Tom want the best for Malton, it is our home. We want to play our part in its success, and we are getting excited about welcoming visitors to our cook book stall during the Malton Food Lovers Festival this month.”

Tom said: “I’m delighted and honoured to now be involved with this impressive and important charity.”