Another new head for glass centre

The National Glass Centre opened in 1998

Britain's National Glass Centre has appointed its sixth chief executive in as many years.

The Sunderland-based arts complex accepted the resignation of Vicky Nicholls, who had been in post less than 12 months, due to ill health.

Katherine Pearson will take over the role in September.

The £17m centre has struggled to hit visitor targets since opening in 1998, but Arts Council bosses have pledged to continue subsidising the centre.

Ms Pearson said: "It is critical that the National Glass Centre is established as a venue that offers the people of Sunderland, the North East and those further afield, a full range of valuable and rewarding experiences."

She is currently director of Creative Partnerships Durham Sunderland, a programme that has involved artists working with teachers to create new creative learning opportunities for young people.

Peter Fidler, chair of the National Glass Centre board of trustees, said: "Katherine brings a great deal of experience as an effective leader and programme director working in the cultural sector."