Ruth Hunt has been appointed as the Chief Executive of Stonewall, the gay rights organisation.

The former CEO Ben Summerskill stepped down in February this year, with Hunt being in the position of Acting CEO since his departure.

Stonewall, which celebrates it’s 25th anniversary this year, announced the news today, describing Hunt as “the clear winner” of the search for a new official CEO.

Speaking about her new position, Hunt said, “I’m delighted to have been given the opportunity to lead Stonewall, a highly-respected organisation that is synonymous with achieving equal rights for lesbian, gay and bisexual people. It is full of committed, intelligent and creative people and I am very pleased to be heading up such a talented team”.

The 34 year-old added, “There are so many opportunities ahead, as well – of course – as challenges.  I look forward to working with Stonewall’s many partners to develop what the team and my predecessors have already achieved, to advance equality and challenge discrimination both throughout the UK and abroad.  These goals we share with the lesbian, gay and bisexual community and it’s fundamental that we work together to achieve them.”

Jan Gooding, Stonewall’s Chair of Trustees, said, “Ruth is an outstanding choice for Stonewall – a bold leader with a naturally collaborative approach and a clear vision. Ruth has amply demonstrated that she has the right skills and experience to take us forward, helping us achieve real and lasting social change”.

While Stonewall has not campaigned in the past on transgender issues, Hunt told that she would “not rule out conversations” about working with the trans community going forward.

Stonewall was in the news earlier today when X Factor singer James Arthur told how he wanted to make “a long term commitment” to the charity, in order to right his wrongs surrounding his use of homophobic language.