The chief executive of a major Cumbrian business is to step down.

Tim Davies is to step down from his role as chief executive of Carr's Group, which has its head office in Carlisle, but will remain in post until a successor is appointed.

Carr's said it had "instigated a rigorous process to select a suitable successor for the role".

Chairman Peter Page said: "On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Tim for his enormous contribution over the last seven years.

"He has led the group with passion and integrity, developing its international focus and a strong organisational culture.

"I look forward to continuing to work closely with Tim during the succession phase."

Tim said: "It has been a privilege to serve as CEO of Carr’s over the last seven years and I am proud of the achievements of my colleagues and the group during that time.

"I firmly believe that now is the right time for a new CEO to lead the group, building upon its strong position, and to develop its strategy into the future.”

Carr's Group runs a network of country stores selling farm equipment, as well as supplying animal feed and supplements across the globe and fuel for heating and vehicles in northern England and southern Scotland.

Its engineering division designs and manufactures bespoke equipment and provides technical engineering services into the nuclear, oil and gas, pharmaceutical, process and renewable energy industries, including robotic and remote handling equipment.