Dr Paul Thomas named as new Sport Wales chair

Skates said: “We want to break down the barriers to participation in sport and physical activity and create opportunities for people of all ages and abilities.”

A Welsh Government statement, external said Thomas has more than 30 years experience working in community development, strategic leadership and sport inclusion roles, “often in socially disadvantaged areas”.

Skates added: “I am confident Paul’s qualities, experience and commitment will help the Welsh Government deliver a more physically active and successful sporting nation.”

Thomas said: “Having grown up in the south Wales valleys and played sport most of my life I am certain of the benefits sport and physical activity can have on people’s health and wellbeing.”

McAllister’s time as chair was due to end in January, 2016 at the end of her second three-year term.

But four applicants were deemed unsuitable and she remains in place until the end of March when Thomas will take charge.