Barnsley Premier Leisure – which manages the borough’s leisure facilities – has appointed a new chief executive.

James Starbuck will take up the position on 14 August.

Starbuck formerly worked at Leeds City Council as the sport operations manager, where he was responsible for 26 leisure venues. He also has extensive experience in local revenue and leisure management.

Starbuck said: “Barnsley Premier Leisure is an organisation with a tremendous amount of potential.

“I am looking forward to working with the team to help ensure that the people of Barnsley have access to the facilities and activities that they deserve.”

The organisation’s chair, Patrick Cryne, added: “Starbuck has a wealth of experience in the industry and is incredibly hard working. He has the skills and knowledge to be able to successfully drive the organisation forward in the years to come.”

He will replace Mark Crutchley, who left the company at the end of June. Stuart Lockwood is acting chief executive in the interim. Details: