The man behind major culture festivals in the UK, Geneva, Hong Kong and Tel Aviv has been named as the next chief executive of the UK Jewish Film Festival.

Michael Etherton has organised music and film festivals across the globe since he graduated from Oxford University and the Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance.

He was festival producer at the Geneva International Jewish Film Festival, and has been part of the UKJFF set-up for the past 10 years.

"It's hugely exciting to take on the role at a key time for the organisation," said Mr Etherton.

"I am looking forward to taking UK Jewish film to the next stage, to expanding our audiences, brand and reach."

He will take on many responsibilities previously held by UKJFF founder Judy Ironside, who has now been appointed as president of the festival.

She praised Mr Etherton for his "experience and charisma".

She said:"I could not have wished for anyone more ideally suited to take the organisation forward,"

The three-week festival, which has been running this month, ends on Sunday.