FORMER social worker Kathy Reade has been named interim chair of NHS Bury.

The appointment comes following the retirement of Hilda Harvey who was the chair for almost eight years.

Kathy held the same post with NHS East Lancashire, a role she will resume when she has ceased to act in this capacity.

She said: "I have agreed to do a job of work as interim chair of NHS Bury at Sir David Henshaw’s request for the next few months.

"Mrs Harvey's commitment to the NHS in Bury as chair of the PCT has been commendable and she will be a tough act to follow but I am ready to turn my attention to the local priorities and challenges and I am looking forward to getting started."

Sir David Henshaw, chairman of NHS North West, said: "Kathy Reade has a track record of strong commitment to public service and I am grateful to her for taking on this interim appointment.

"Her wealth of public sector experience and working knowledge of the NHS should prove to be extremely valuable. I look forward to working with her in the vital task of improving the health and social care of the people of this area."

The post carries a salary of £36,779 per annum.