The retiring chief executive of a Kings Langley-based charity said he hopes the work it does and its staff remain a "breath of fresh air".

Ralph Verlander, 59, is stepping down after 15 years at Life Opportunities Trust in Hempstead Road to move to New Zealand.

He took over the position at the charity after working in capital planning at Leavesden Hospital, when he said social attitudes to adults with learning difficulties were quite different.

Mr Verlander said: "The people we serve are much more accepted in the community than 25 years ago. They are much more socially included and have many more opportunities and activities they can do, including going on holidays.

"From a disabilities point of view, our users are becoming more included, but that’s something we have always been proud of here at Life Opportunities Trust."

Mr Verlander will be moving with his Kiwi wife this summer and hopes to continue to work in social care.

He said: It’s going to be a wrench leaving but I believe the trust is in good shape to meet the coming challenges and I am confident that the staff at head office and those providing our services will continue to develop them in the best possible way."