Lord and Lady Mendelsohn named new Norwood presidents

Facebook’s vice-president for Europe and a shadow business minister have been appointed as Norwood’s new presidents.

Lord and Lady Mendelsohn succeed media mogul Richard Desmond, who held post for eight years.

Following the announcement at the charity’s annual dinner last night, Lady Mendelsohn, who is also co-chair of the Government’s Industries Council, said: “Jon and I are very honoured and excited to become part of the Norwood family.

“It plays such a crucial role for those who are vulnerable and for those that need support when faced with terrible difficulties. We are looking forward to supporting the work of the fantastic lay and professional team and to doing what we can to help.”

Welcoming the appointment, Norwood chair David Ereira hailed the couple’s “wealth of philanthropic, communal and commercial experience” as well as their “passion for Norwood’s work and vision”.

The dinner marked the charity’s 200 years of royal patronage. In a message, the Queen said: “I was pleased to be reminded of the charity’s important work in providing vulnerable assistance and care for individuals with learning disabilities and their families. I send my best wishes for a most memorable evening and an enjoyable year ahead.”