EXCLUSIVE: Birmingham’s Institute of Asian Businesses has appointed The Sikh Times editor, Gurjeet Bains to chair the organisation.

Gurjeet Bains replaces Sarindar Singh Sahota, who has been chairman for the past two years. The new vice chairman will be Mohammed Zulfiquar.

Mrs Bains, who is also editor of the English section of The Sikh Times was ecstatic with the appointment: "It is a huge honour take over the leadership of such an important business organisation.

I’m passionate about the progression Asian businesses should make in Birmingham and I hope that my being a woman will encourage other women to not only get more involved in business but also take the initiative and start up on their own."

The news is a major boost for the growing reputation of the Birmingham based The Sikh Times newspaper. The publication was also print media partners for the Mayor of London's Vaisakhi celebrations last month.

Gurjeet Bains added, "This role will enable me to further take the voice of Asians to a new level not only through the publication but through the new role I will be taking."