The environmental organisation Earthwatch Europe has appointed the former head of Devon Wildlife Trust as its next chief executive. 

The not-for-profit organisation said Harry Barton would take up his new role in January, succeeding Steve Andrews who is stepping down after five years in the role to take a career break. 

Barton, who led Devon Wildlife Trust between October 2011 and July last year, previously spent five years as chief executive of the environmental and education charity the Earth Trust. 

He said he had been on a planned career break since stepping down from the DWT, which has included writing a book, setting up the Dartmoor Nature Alliance, which he chairs, and cycling from Devon to Venice. 

He said: “Earthwatch's commitment to citizen science and its focus on inspiring action for a sustainable future aligns perfectly with my passion for conservation and community engagement.

Lucian Hudson, chair of Earthwatch Europe, said: “Harry’s extensive experience in conservation, coupled with his passion for citizen science and community engagement, make him an exceptional leader to take Earthwatch to new heights. 

We are confident that under Harry’s leadership, Earthwatch will continue to make a significant impact on conservation and inspire people and organisations to take action for a sustainable future.”