EAST Lancashire NHS Trust has named a new boss to oversee the delivery of babies across the region.

Angela O’Toole has been appointed head of midwifery and deputy chief nurse, leading a team of midwives and support staff.

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Angela said: “I am very pleased to be appointed to this role.

“I have worked at the trust for 33 years and I am dedicated and passionate in delivering safe, personal and effective care within the family care division.”

Angela previously worked as a midwife matron on the post-natal wards.

She replaces Anita Fleming, who saw maternity services in Blackburn and Burnley hailed as ‘the best in England’ under her watch last year.

The accolade, from the Royal College of Midwives, included praise for supporting staff, promoting ‘normal births’ and reducing caesarean section rates. Anita was also nominated for an individual award.

Chris Pearson, chief nurse for the trust, said: “I am pleased to announce the appointment of Angela as the head of midwifery and deputy chief nurse for the family care division.

“With the wealth of experience that she brings to this new role, Angela will exceed all expectations in driving the trust and the family care division forward in delivering safe, personal and effective care.”

Last year East Lancashire’s maternity services were given the best scores in the North West in a patient survey.

The Care Quality Commission recognised the services the main maternity centre at Burnley, midwife-led birthing units at Blackburn and Rossendale, which were ranked as ‘nine out of 10’ for questions about labour and birth.