A REGIONAL health chief who is clinical lead for the Covid-19 vaccination programme in this area has been recognised in the New Year Honours List.

Dr Yvette Oade has received a CBE for services to women in the NHS.

She had recently retired as chief medical officer and deputy chief executive for Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust in May, 2020, when she returned to the health service to provide clinical leadership during the roll-out of the vaccine.

Dr Oade – a paediatrician by background, with over 38 years' experience in the NHS – said she was "delighted, honoured and humbled" to receive the honour.

She added: "I have enjoyed every day of my career, working with fantastic people, all of whom are focussed on doing their best for patients and the service. This recognition is the icing on the cake."

Tribute is paid to her by Richard Barker, north-east and Yorkshire regional director for the NHS.

He said: "I am absolutely delighted that Yvette has been recognised for her work in the NHS and services to women.

"Yvette has led a remarkable career and this honour is a credit to her unwavering commitment and exemplary medical leadership within our NHS over many years."

Dr Oade's other roles include a trustee of Yorkshire Cancer Research.