Nationwide Accident Repair Services has announced David Pugh as its new finance director.

Pugh will take the role from April 10, succeeding David Loftus, who is leaving the group on the same date after nine years with NARS.

He has more than 20 years' experience in senior financial roles, most recently as group finance director of social care service provider CareTech Holdings plc and construction company Carillion plc.

Michael Wilmshurst, chief executive, said: "I am delighted to welcome David Pugh to the board. He has considerable financial experience to offer the group. At the same time, I would also like to thank our outgoing finance director, David Loftus, for his significant contribution to Nationwide since he joined over nine years ago. I wish him well in his new ventures."

AIM-listed Nationwide is the UK's largest independent accident repair network and also provides claims management services to fleets and private motorists.