The Lord-Lieutenant of Oxfordshire has appointed a new deputy to assist in the role of representing Her Majesty the Queen in the county.

The new Deputy Lieutenant is Brigadier Dennis Blease, from Longcot, near Faringdon, who served in the Army for 36 years, before retiring in 2008.

Along with a number of formal tasks, Mr Blease, 65, will help to encourage and support all positive contributions to community life in Oxfordshire - particularly from volunteering activities.

During the latter part of his service he worked mainly with NATO, but also with the EU and UN.

He has also combined active involvement in local matters within the Vale of White Horse with part-time doctoral studies at Cranfield University, Shrivenham, gaining his PhD this year.

Lord Lieutenant Tim Stevenson said: "I am delighted to announce this new appointment to the existing group of dedicated Deputy Lieutenants. I know that Brigadier Blease will bring skill, commitment and enthusiasm to his new role. Oxfordshire will benefit greatly."