New leaders for troubled hospital

Sir Stephen Moss is described as a passionate believer in the NHS

A hospital trust at the centre of calls for a public inquiry has appointed a new chief executive and chairman.

Antony Sumara is taking over as chief executive of the trust which looks after Stafford Hospital. Sir Stephen Moss has been appointed as chairman.

Former chief executive Martin Yeates resigned in March, along with chairman Toni Brisby, before a damning report into the hospital was published.

An NHS watchdog said the hospital's emergency care was "appalling".

The Healthcare Commission said about 400 more people died at Stafford Hospital between 2005 and 2008 than would be expected.

'Comprehensive report'

Campaigners are pushing for a public inquiry to be held over the matter but the government has said there is no need as the Healthcare Commission report had been comprehensive.

Announcing the appointment, interim chairman David Stone said Mr Sumara, currently chief executive of NHS Interim Management and Support and Director of Turnaround, NHS London, had a proven track record as a turnaround specialist for NHS trusts.

"A transformation programme which sets out more than one hundred goals is being implemented and I am confident this work will continue to be driven under his leadership," he said.

Sir Stephen, who formerly worked for the Commission of Health Improvement, was a passionate believer in the NHS who would drive forward improvements to benefit patients and staff, Mr Stone added.