THE chief of one of the region's best-known children's charities is stepping down.

After six years as CEO, Toby Porter will leave his role with the hospice, which looks after seriously ill children and their families across the West Midlands.

He leaves Acorns to take up a role as chief exec of Hospice UK in September.

He said: "It has been a total privilege to lead Acorns, and its wonderful team working and volunteering here.

"Acorns is an incredibly special charity and I have been completely inspired by the courage, compassion, and generosity I have witnessed during my time as Chief Executive.

"What will remain with me above all as I depart, will be the feeling of being humbled - every single day - seeing firsthand the countless ways Acorns makes a difference to children and families across our local community.

"Although it won’t be easy to say goodbye, it’s the right time to hand the reins to someone else who can lead the charity with new ideas and fresh perspectives and help this vital children’s hospice service continue to flourish over the coming years."