NHS England’s new chief executive has been invited to visit Airedale Hospital.

Hospital board of directors were informed last week that Simon Stevens had been asked to go to Airedale to see some of its more innovative services.

Airedale NHS Foundation Trust chief executive, Bridget Fletcher, said: “I believe what we are doing here resonates very well with Mr Stevens’ widely reported ‘think like a patient, act like a taxpayer’ speech.

“I think what we are developing presents a new blueprint for local health and social care economies.

“My invitation has been acknowledged by Mr Stevens’ office, and I hope to confirm he will be able to join us at some point.”