The Plastics Pipes Group (PPG) of the British Plastics Federation has appointed Caroline Ayres as its new director following the retirement of Frank Jones at the end of 2012.
Mr Jones has been director since 1993 and will remain as a consultant to the PPG.

Ms Ayres has been working for the PPG as standards and technical manager for 10 years. She said: 'The PPG has been representing UK manufacturers of plastic pipes since 1962 and will continue to promote the development, acceptance and usage of manufactured plastics piping systems at all levels. Plastic pipes play a vital role in the infrastructure of this country and I am proud to be representing such a vital, responsible and sustainable industry.''

Before the PPG, Ms Ayres worked for the BBA and, before that, for British Gas Research and Development. She is Chair of the BSI committee for non-pressure plastic piping systems and sits on many BSI and other technical committees.

Caroline's appointment coincides with the appointment of a new PPG President. Martin Gisbourne has taken over from Glen Sabin (MD Polypipe Civils). Mr Gisbourne is Utilities and Industry director of Aliaxis UK.