A POPULAR professor at Hereford's new university is to step down after five years in charge.

President and chief executive of the New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering (NMITE), Professor Elena Rodriguez-Falcon is to leave her post to join another university.

She is moving to the University of Wales Trinty Saint David to take up the position of Deputy Vice-Chancellor.

Current chief operating officer at NMITE, James Newby will step into the role.

Professor Rodriguez-Falcon said: “It is with a heavy heart that I am leaving and it has been a true honour to be part of the team.

"The university, its team and students will no doubt go on to transform engineering, education and Herefordshire."

Terence Jagger, CBE, chair of the board of trustees at NMITE said: "Elena has been a brilliant leader and has inspired many of our students and we wish her nothing but the best in her new role.

"We are looking forward to welcoming James into his new role and know he will continue to drive NMITE forward with the same passion and dedication he has shown already."