THE boss of a Hampshire health trust has stepped down.

Fiona Dalton, the University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust (UHS) chief executive, has left the trust.

Ms Dalton has accepted a new role as chief executive officer of Providence Healthcare in Vancouver, Canada.

She is expected to leave her role at UHS in March 2018.

The process of identifying a permanent replacement as chief executive is expected to start imminently.

Peter Hollins, chairman of the trust, praised Ms Dalton.

Mr Hollins said: “I know that all at UHS recognise what a fantastic job Fiona has done since returning here in 2013.

“The board will be extremely sorry to see her depart but recognises the personal opportunity for Fiona provided by both Providence Healthcare and its location.

“She will leave UHS with both our gratitude and good wishes.”

Mr Hollins added: “Given the current excellent reputation of UHS, in no small part due to Fiona’s contribution, I have no doubt that UHS will be successful in recruiting an outstanding new chief executive with the energy and enthusiasm to build on her legacy.”

David French, chief financial officer, has agreed to act as interim chief executive until a permanent appointment is made later this year.

As previously reported, Ms Dalton was handed an Honorary Doctor of Science last summer, along with 5,000 University of Southampton graduates.