THE former boss of Nuneaton and Bedworth Primary Care Group has been appointed as the new chief executive of Hereford and Worcester Ambulance Service NHS Trust.

Russell Hamilton, aged 45, is currently on secondment as director of strategic and corporate development at the trust.

He will take over the post from Tamar Thompson, who was acting chief executive until a new person could be appointed.

Mrs Thompson will now take up her new post as director of modernisation at West Midlands South Strategic Health Authority.

Mr Hamilton was also project director for emergency care services at West Midlands Strategic Health Authority.

His appointment to the post was announced by chairman of the trust Joanna Newton.

"I'm delighted with the appointment of Russell Hamilton as the new chief executive," she said.

"He has a tremendous track record in the National Health Service with a background in primary, secondary and emergency care at senior officer level."

Commenting on his appointment, Mr Hamilton said he was looking forward to taking the trust into the future.

"It's with great pleasure that I accept the appointment of chief executive of Hereford and Worcester Ambulance Service," said Mr Hamilton, who lives in Ross-on-Wye.

"The successful development of emergency care services relies upon the ambulance service working closely with the public, all health and care organisations, other emergency sectors and the voluntary sector.

"I look forward to meeting this challenge and leading the development of the organisation."