Patten, who starts on 6 October, will be tasked with leading NLaG's exit from its NHS Humber Health Partnership (HHP) group with Hull University Teaching Hospitals Trust (HUTH) following the decision for it to be scrapped.

‘I am pleased to be joining NLaG as interim chief executive at an important point in the trust's development,' Patten said.

Murray Macdonald, who has served as a non-executive director for almost two years, has been appointed NLaG interim chair from 1 October.

Patten added: ‘My immediate priority will be to listen to colleagues, work with Murray and the wider leadership team, and ensure we continue to deliver safe, effective and compassionate care. I am committed to providing clear and steady leadership as NLaG moves towards its new arrangements, while building on the dedication and expertise of teams across the organisation.'

Alan Downey and Lyn Simpson will continue as chair and chief executive of HHP and HUTH until the group has been dissolved.