The man tasked with revitalising Epsom town centre has spent a decade working for John Lewis.

Adam Worley, 27, who started as the borough's business development manager on August 7, also has experience working at Gloucestershire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) and at a business start-up for an online, eco-friendly retailer.

Mr Worley spent more than three years at the LEP where he helped get it government retail pathfinder status.

He has also worked on economic development including EU funding and inward investment activities.

Mr Worley said: "I am really looking forward to providing support to businesses for the economic success of Epsom. "

It is vital that all areas of the local authority and the high street businesses work together, building upon the town’s heritage, in order for the borough to grow and attract investment. I am really delighted to be a part of it.

"Over the coming weeks I will be speaking to businesses to discuss their needs and to find out how they can be best supported, working with departments within the council to ensure the business community has a champion and a single point of contact."

Although the post was approved by the council last July it has taken a year to find the right person for the role. Mr Worley’s activities will be directed by a steering group including representatives from local businesses, the council and police.

Councillor Neil Dallen, chairman of the council's strategy and resources committee, said: "We are delighted that a person with Adam’s experience and enthusiasm has joined the team. "We have gone to great lengths to recruit a high quality business development manager who not only has a proven track record, but also has the drive, desire and passion to succeed."

David Beddows, general manger of The Ashley Centre, which is part funding the role, said it was looking forward to working with Mr Worley in driving forward the town centre.

Mr Beddows said: "Together with Adam we can now explore new avenues for developing the area’s retail sector to ensure it can continue to attract both new independents and multinationals alike."

Shanaaz Carroll, deputy chief executive at the Association of Town and City Management (ATCM), said they had worked with Mr Worley in his previous position, which included developing a town centre toolkit. She said: "We look forward to working with Adam in his new role and to providing support to the town wherever we can."