A NEW director of nursing has been appointed at Airedale Hospital.

Jill Asbury has been promoted from her role as deputy director of nursing, a post she held since early last year.

Jill grew up in Wiltshire and completed her general and children’s nurse training in Leeds.

Her career spans more than 30 years, and includes a variety of roles across hospitals in the region, including head of nursing for education and workforce at Leeds NHS Teaching Hospitals Trust.

As director of nursing at Airedale, she will be responsible for a workforce of more than 1,100 nurses, midwives and health care assistants from around the globe.

Commenting on the appointment, Airedale chief executive Bridget Fletcher said: “After a rigorous selection process involving our senior clinical leaders, board members and an external assessor, we were pleased to confirm Jill’s appointment.

"It's very positive for the hospital that we've been able to secure such an experienced senior nurse in this key role. I know Jill will contribute significantly as we continue to deliver high quality, accessible care for the local population.

“In addition, Jill’s appointment will ensure we can provide first class support and development for our nursing and allied health professionals workforce in a challenging environment for health services.”

In her spare time, Jill enjoys camping, dog-walking, gardening, motorcycling and archery.