Tribute was paid to Airedale Hospital’s departing executive medical director.

Andrew Catto, pictured, finishes on February 14 to take up a similar post with the Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust in Birmingham. He was praised, during the Airedale trust’s latest public board meeting, for his ten years’ service.

Chief executive, Bridget Fletcher, said: “I would like to thank Andrew for his hard work and support – he has been a true asset.”

Until a replacement is appointed, Dr Harold Hosker – consultant in respiratory and general medicine – will become interim medical director and join Airedale’s board as a corporate director.

He will be supported by Dr John O’Dowd, clinical director for diagnostics and gastroenterology, who becomes interim deputy medical director for quality and safety.