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

Andrew Catto finishes on February 14 to take up a similar post with the Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust in Birmingham.

He was praised at the Airedale Trust’s latest public board meeting for his ten years’ service.

Chief executive Bridget Fletcher said: “I would like to thank Andrew personally for all his hard work and support – he has been a true asset to our trust. I would also like to congratulate him on his new post and wish him every success in his future career.”

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

And 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.