The move has put off the arrival of a new chief executive

Jenny Green said she had been considering her position for some time, but her decision will mean further disruption at the organisation.

By the end of the month the total debt for the whole of NHS in Lincolnshire is expected to peak at �35m.

A government financial hit squad has been brought in and Mrs Green said there were extremely far-reaching decisions which now need to be taken.

She added a new chairman with different skills is now needed at the top of the trust.

Her resignation also means the appointment of the trust's chief executive has been put off until her successor is in post.