New chief medical officer for Wales named as Dr Ruth Hussey OBE

Dr Ruth Hussey, who wants to stamp out health inequalities, will start work in September

The new chief medical officer for Wales has been named as Dr Ruth Hussey OBE.

She will succeed Dr Tony Jewell when he retires later this year.

Dr Hussey, from north Wales, has been regional director of Public Health, NHS North West since 2006 and previously held the post of director of health strategy at Cheshire and Merseyside Strategic Health Authority.

Dr Hussey, who wants to stamp out health inequalities, was said to be "honoured" by the appointment

"I am honoured to be appointed as chief medical officer for Wales.

"Being particularly interested in inequalities in health and the importance of involving communities in decisions about their own health and care, I look forward to continuing the excellent work of Dr Tony Jewell and his team in improving health and well-being for the people of Wales," she said.

"On a personal level, I am very much looking forward to returning to Wales, and improving my Welsh."

Health minister Lesley Griffiths was "delighted" at the appointment.

"I'm sure Dr Hussey will be a worthy successor to Dr Jewell and look forward to welcoming her to the team later this year."

Dr Hussey will start in September.