Edinburgh Woollen Mill group commercial director Steve Simpson has been appointed as managing director of its value fashion chain Peacocks.

Simpson has replaced interim managing director Tony Brown, who left in the summer after six months at the helm. Simpson will continue as commercial director of the group, while leading the fashion retailer in his new role.

Edinburgh Woollen Mill group bought Peacocks out of administration in February last year.

The group last month revealed record profits, as operating profit soared 184% from £20.6m to £58.5m in the year to March 2, 2013.

Brown has now taken up the role of commercial operating officer at 99p Stores.