A Forres-based forestry consultant has been appointed to the board of directors at Moray Badenoch and Strathspey Enterprise, part of the Highlands and Islands Enterprise network.

An honours graduate of the University of Aberdeen and a corporate member of the Institute of Chartered Foresters, Chris Piper is a professional forester with over 20 years experience. His expertise covers technical forest management and consultancy and he operates his own consultancy, C J Piper & Co, from Forres.  He is also chairman of the Forres Community Woodlands Trust, which owns and manages two local woodlands for the benefit of the community.

Confirming his appointment, MBSE chairman, Derek Bedford, said:  "I am delighted to welcome Mr Piper to the board.  The board has a very challenging role in advising and directing the operations of MBSE and I have absolutely no doubt that Mr Piper will make substantial contributions to our work, particularly in relation to the four strategic goals of growing businesses, strengthening communities, developing skills and making global connections."