Trust's chief executive departs

The chief executive of a debt-laden North Yorkshire health trust recently deemed to have "poor financial management" is leaving her post.

Dr Janet Soo-Chung announced she would be leaving North Yorkshire and York Primary Care Trust (PCT) to take up a new role in the NHS.

An Audit Commission report earlier this month said the trust was among 20 in England deemed to be "inadequate".

Dr Soo-Chung has been in charge of the PCT since it was formed two years ago.

The trust warned in March it was unlikely to meet a target to pay off its £19m debt by the end of this financial year.

'Worked tirelessly'

In the report, the Audit Commission said the trust failed to reach minimum standards in managing finances.

Speaking about her departure, Dr Soo-Chung said: "I am looking forward to taking on a new challenge although I am sorry to be leaving North Yorkshire.

"I would like to thank our staff, partners and stakeholders for their hard work and support."

John Wardle, chairman of the PCT, said: "Janet has worked tirelessly for the past two years and with great fortitude.

"I particularly recognise that under her stewardship the PCT has maintained the highest possible standards of service to patients and the public whilst the inherited deficit has been reduced year on year."

The trust said Nick Steele, deputy chief executive and director of finance and resources, would take over until an interim chief executive was appointed.