Professor Tracey Carter is celebrating after being appointed as Chief Nurse of West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust this week.

She will be replacing former nurse Jackie Ardley, who has been working in the post on a temporary basis since last summer.

Prof Carter said that she is "delighted" to have been given this job and was looking forward to working with the entire team.

The role will place Tracey responsible for the leadership of more than 2,500 nurses, midwives and healthcare assistants, as well as overseeing complaints, legal affairs and patient advice teams.

She has also been appointed as director of infection, prevention and control, which will see her leading on the prevention of healthcare-related infections like MRSA.

Samantha Jones, chief executive of the trust, said: "I am delighted to welcome Tracey to our team.

"Chief nurse is a crucial role and Tracey’s extensive skills and experience will help her play a key role in shaping the future of our hospitals."

Tracey will begin work in late July.