The chief executive of a housing group has stepped down after almost three years in the top job.

Gary Clark is moving on from Golding Homes after heading the Maidstone-based housing association "through a substantial period of growth and change" since June 2017, the company said.

In a statement, Mr Clark said: "It has been an absolute privilege to lead Golding through a period of internal and external change and I leave behind a great social business with a capable senior team and a passionate workforce.

"I am particularly proud of how we have been able to develop more affordable homes across Kent at pace, as well as being a partner to many key projects such as helping rough sleepers find a permanent home in Maidstone, via a Housing First project, as well as wider community employment and health initiatives."

Chris Cheeseman, chairman of Golding Homes added: "Gary has played a vital role modernising and growing the organisation and as a popular chief executive, will be missed by all."

The housing association said an interim chief executive will be appointed shortly, during the recruitment of a permanent replacement.

Golding Homes has about 7,000 homes in and around Maidstone.

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