DR JULIAN Povey has become the new Clinical Chair of Shropshire Clinical Commissioning Group that is responsible for buying health care in Ludlow and south Shropshire.

It is the first time since the CCG became authorised in 2013 that the post has been held by a GP, and follows a decision taken by the CCG’s membership which comprises all 44 GP practices in Shropshire.

Dr Povey has been a GP in Shropshire since 1994, and a partner at the Pontesbury Medical Practice since 1997

“We need to recognise the CCG is in the middle of a period of transition,” he said.

“I see the new role I have been appointed to as providing clinical leadership, both within the CCG and in our relationship with our NHS and other partners, and to provide clinical advice and support to the CCG on a day-to-day basis.”

Dr Povey replaces Helen Herrity who has been Lay Chair since the CCG was authorised in 2013.Helen will remain with the CCG continuing her role as Lay Member for Patient and Public Engagement.

Brigid Stacey remains the CCG’s Acting Accountable Officer, although the process of recruiting to the post on a permanent basis has begun. She replaced Dr Caron Morton who stepped down from the role last autumn and now works as a GP at Station Road Surgery in Ludlow.