THREE new non-executive directors have been appointed to the healthcare foundation trust which runs Hexham General Hospital.

Alison Marshall, Allan Hepple and David Chesser will take up roles at Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust at the beginning of next year.

The trio bring with them significant skills in law, finance and human resources, which it is hoped will help the trust move forward in what is seen as the most challenging time for the NHS.

A qualified accountant from Corbridge, David has had a successful career in the public and private sector, most recently being responsible for all the non-academic aspects of two universities.

David, who plans to retire from full-time employment at the end of the year, said: “In light of the unprecedented financial challenges facing the whole NHS, every organisation must look at ways of running services more efficiently and sharing expertise where possible.

“Given Northumbria’s status as a foundation group leader, I look forward to helping to progress this exciting development and building on the trust’s vast experience of providing corporate functions for NHS organisations across the country.”

A qualified lawyer, and previously a partner at Dickinson Dees LLP, Alison is from Felton and acted for NHS and public sector clients throughout her career before retiring in 2013.

Allan, a Northumberland county councillor and cabinet member for planning, economic growth, housing and transport, has years of local authority experience.

Rated ‘outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission, Northumbria Healthcare is leading national work to pioneer new, joined-up models of care, and last month was chosen to head up one of four foundation groups to share its expertise with NHS organisations across the country.

Chairman of Northumbria Healthcare Alan Richardson said: “I am delighted to welcome Alison, Allan and David to our trust at such an exciting, albeit immensely challenging, time for all NHS organisations.

“The NHS is changing and while we are obviously proud to be at the cutting edge, we know that to keep abreast of this transformation, and continue to push boundaries in excellence and innovation, we need the right people in place.”