(Sharecast News) - London-based telecommunications company Gamma Communications is reportedly in advanced talks with ex-Softcat chief executive officer Martin Hellawell, it emerged on Thursday, to take up the role of chairman.

The potential appointment, reported by Sky News, would follow the retirement of Richard Last.

AIM-traded Gamma has faced ongoing speculation over potential offers to take over the company.

Sky quoted sources as identifying Hellawell as the leading candidate for chairman, but added that the appointment was unlikely to be finalised before the firm's annual general meeting later in May.

At 1512 BST, shares in Gamma Communications were up 0.7% at 1,158p.

Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com.