The chief executive of the East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust is leaving his role to run another Lancashire trust.

Kevin McGee has hung up his hat at ELHT to take on a new role as chief executive of Lancashire Teaching Hospitals.

Chairman of ELHT, Eileen Fairhurst has paid tribute to Kevin in a message sent to all employees of the Trust.

Eileen said: “Kevin has been a significant source of support to myself, the Board and indeed all of us all over the last seven years.

“His legacy of compassionate leadership will stay with us. Kevin’s dedication and commitment to providing Safe, Personal and Effective care has been immeasurable, as has his passion to ensure a happy and healthy workforce. I know you will join me in wishing Kevin the best of luck for the future.”

Speaking after being appointed as the new Chief Executive in May, Kevin McGee said: “I am absolutely delighted to have been appointed as the new Chief Executive at Lancashire Teaching Hospitals, which as a leading major trauma and specialist tertiary centre, plays a pivotal role in the local health and care system.

“I am determined to ensure that we provide our local communities with the best possible services in collaboration with our key partners and by maximising the opportunities presented by the New Hospitals Programme.”

Alongside his chief executive role, Kevin will also lead the Provider Collaborative Board for the Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care System.