Two new members have joined the board of tourism agency Visit Kent after being nominated by private sector investors.

Eurotunnel director John Keefe and Southeastern managing director David Statham have been appointed to the executive team for the first time.

Serving directors, Sarah Wood, managing director of Mulberry Cottages, and John Meardon, receiver general at Canterbury Cathedral, have been re-elected for a second term.

Mr Keefe said he was “delighted to be joining the Visit Kent Board at such an exciting time for tourism in the county”.

Mr Statham added: “I am really pleased to join the Board of Visit Kent, and to have the opportunity to bring more people by rail to see the wonderful attractions and sights the county has to offer, and to help further grow our local economy.”

Mrs Wood said she believed she would “ensure the voice of small businesses is continues to be heard”.

Visit Kent chief executive Sandra Matthews-Marsh praised the high number of nominations for new board members.

She said it was a “very positive sign of the level of confidence the private sector has in Visit Kent”.