A former Conservative MP has been appointed as the next chief executive of an LGBT veterans charity.

Peter Gibson has assumed the top role at Fighting With Pride following a five-year spell as the MP for Darlington.

The charity works to relieve need, hardship or distress among LBGT former members of the Armed Forces.

Gibson succeeds Caroline Paige, who announced she would step down in January citing the need for “someone with a different kind of experience” to take the charity forward.

Paige was originally joint chief executive with Craig Jones between 2020 and 2022 before taking on the role exclusively.

Gibson worked as a solicitor before entering parliament in 2019. He lost his seat in the general election last year.

“Caroline and Craig have achieved so much, and I am committed to building on their legacy,” he said.

“Together with our team and supporters, we will continue to fight for justice, recognition, and support for LGBT+ veterans - ensuring their voices are heard and their service is respected.”

Paige said: “It has been a tremendous privilege to lead this charity alongside Craig —  helping bring visibility, justice, and pride to a community too long forgotten.

“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved, and I wish Peter every success as he takes the helm and leads Fighting With Pride into its next chapter.”