Deri Watkins, UK chocolate impulse sales director at Mars, has been named the new vice president of Sweet Charity, the charity for the UK confectionery industry.

Watkins will support Sweet Charity president and Booker CEO Charles Wilson, succeeding him as president when he steps down next September.

"It is a great honour," Watkins said. "I have always been a big supporter of the work done by Sweet Charity and hope, alongside Charles Wilson, I can play a part in raising much-needed funds.

"Sweet Charity helped over 1,500 people last year, Like most, I am aware that times are difficult, but if we work together as an industry, I am sure we can continue to support this worthy cause."

Watkins has worked at Mars for 10 years in a number of roles including general manager of the ice cream business and transformation director for the UK chocolate business.