Secret World Wildlife Rescue is welcoming a brand new chairman to their board of trustees.

Paul Edwards is a Wells-based entrepreneur and he believes that the West Huntspill animal charity has an important role to play in inspiring people to appreciate the wildlife where they live.

Paul has had an international career in the scientific research industry, and now finds himself with the desire and the time to make a difference in Somerset.

"I wanted to give something back," said Paul.

"Secret World is a very worthwhile cause where I can make a difference to wildlife- helping those who can’t speak for themselves."

Before moving back to the UK in 2012, Paul had lived in big cities around the world, but at home today on the edge of Wells, he has discovered an appreciation for the countryside and its creatures.

"Our countryside is beautiful and a home for wildlife, and we need to keep it that way," he added.

"Secret World plays an essential role in rescuing injured and orphaned animals but raising awareness is also a very important part of our mission.

"By inspiring people to appreciate nature, we can change people’s behaviour and encourage love and care for the wildlife around us."

Secret Word CEO Glyn Berwick said: "We’re delighted to welcome Paul Edwards as Secret World’s new Chair of Trustees. Paul brings a great deal of experience from the business world and his leadership will be enormously valuable as we continue to seek the most innovative ways to deliver the best care for wildlife in need.”

"A big thank you to our outgoing Chair Vanessa Mason for all her hard work and guidance.

"We’re really pleased that Vanessa will continue on the Secret World Board along with our other excellent Trustees Lisa Flahant, Ray Parfitt and Sarah Holder who work closely with myself and the other members of the Secret World team.

"We’re all very excited about taking the charity into the future."

Paul sees the charity’s biggest challenge as fundraising in a time of austerity.

“Secret World is tucked away in rural Somerset, not a high profile area like London, so it’s harder for us to be seen," he said.

"At a time when people across the country have less money to spend, it is an ongoing challenge to raise the funds needed to cope with the large number of animals who need our help, particularly through the summer months when thousands of wildlife casualties are coming through the doors.

“But I see a bright future for Secret World as we look towards 2017, our 25th anniversary year.

"Our Founder, Pauline Kidner continues to inspire a great deal of support and passion for the charity.

"With this strong network of supporters and our talented, passionate team of staff and volunteers we have a big opportunity now to lay the foundations for a successful future for Secret World and for the wildlife we are here for every day."