New chief for ailing glass centre

The National Glass Centre opened five years ago

A new chief executive is due to take up her post at the National Glass Centre in Sunderland.

It is hoped Vicky Nicholls will reverse the fortunes of the attraction which is currently losing more than £100,000 every year.

A recent report from the National Audit Office said the £17m centre is failing to attract enough visitors.

Ms Nicholls is due to take over from outgoing chief executive Jules Preston on Monday.

When the centre opened five years ago it was hailed as a celebration of Sunderland's heritage in the glass-making industry.

About 75,000 people were expected to visit the attraction every year, but that target is currently falling short by 10,000.

Ms Nicholls has vowed to raise the centre's profile and reverse those visitor numbers.