AN East Lancashire mental health authority has finally appointed a permanent finance boss - 18 months after their predecessor was poached by hospital chiefs.

David Young has been appointed finance director at Whalley-based Calderstones NHS Trust, a mental health authority which cares for people from throughout the North West.

He stepped into the role after former finance boss Stephen Brookfield left to take the helm at East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust.

The hospitals trust drafted in Mr Brookfield after its £90,000 a year finance chief David Meakin went off sick, in February last year.

Mr Brookfield was made the permanent finance director in January.

The new finance director at Calderstones has worked in NHS finance for 33 years, of which he has spent the last 15 on top-level NHS management boards.

Mr Young said: "I am delighted to be appointed on a permanent basis and have enjoyed my time at Calderstones so far.

"The NHS faces many challenges in the years to come and we have to react and respond in the right manner to ensure the longevity of Calderstones."

The trust last month said it would axe 80 posts and two wards at its Mitton Road hospital.

It said the beds were not needed as more people can be treated in the community. Staff affected will be moved to for the tTrust."