Six years after being appointed chief executive of Croydon Health Services NHS Trust, John Goulston has announced he is stepping down.

Mr Goulston, who turns 60 this year, plans to retire on September 30, after 32 years in the NHS.

He said he felt proud of the work achieved during his time in the role.

“We have transformed the trust by listening to what our staff, patients and their families, and the communities that we serve," he said.

"Most importantly, we have acted on what we heard.

"This must always continue."

Mr Goulston took on the job of chief executive in May 2012 during a period of "unprecedented challenges" for the NHS which included steering the trust out of financial special measures.

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Chairman of CHS Trust, Mike Bell, said whoever took over the position would have big shoes to fill.

"He has overseen a transformation in the quality of care and performance of the trust," he said.

"John has been clear from the start that people need to be at the heart of service transformation.

"He knew the key to improvement was through empowering staff at all levels, and giving staff the space to innovate and work with their ideas.

“John’s vision for the trust and his commitment to releasing the talent of our staff has made a tremendous difference and is now delivering real improvements for people in Croydon.

"He knew we had to work in partnership to improve the health and care of people in our borough."

The hospital will now look to appoint a successor, something the outgoing chief executive will be keeping an eye on.

“I look forward to hearing about the great things our staff and the trust will achieve in the future," Mr Goulston said.

"Especially as we strengthen our partnerships with health and care organisations to provide even more seamless services in the borough.”