The company behind popular theme park Diggerland has announced the appointment of its new chief executive.

Excavator hire firm HE Services, based in Strood, has confirmed Damien West as its new boss - replacing Brendan Walsh who has been in the role since 2022.

He will oversee the group’s diverse portfolio which includes its plant hire arm, Diggerland UK theme parks - with sites in Medway Valley Leisure Park, Yorkshire, Devon and Durham - Masterhitch Europe and EVision Electric Vehicles.

Bringing over 30 years experience to the job, he has previously held key leadership roles within well-established plant hire businesses.

Taking over the reins, he will work closely with chairman and group founder Hugh Edeleanu.

The new CEO said: “From expanding our plant hire operations to overseeing the 25th anniversary of Diggerland UK, there are tremendous opportunities ahead. I look forward to working with the talented teams across the Group to drive growth, efficiency, and innovation.”