A FORMER prison governor has become the borough's "Older People's Champion".

Mr Robin Halward has been appointed as a non-executive director on the local health board.

Mr Halward (53), from Prestwich, has 30 years' experience of working in public services.

He has held the post of governor of Manchester Prison, director general of Northern Ireland Prison Services and deputy director general of the immigration and nationality directorate of the Home Office.

Mr Halward said: "Bury has played an important part in my life. My wife was born and brought up in Ramsbottom and our children grew up in Prestwich. I am pleased to have this opportunity to contribute to the provision of healthcare in Bury."

Chairman of Bury Primary Care Trust (PCT), Mrs Hilda Harvey said: "I am delighted to welcome Robin Halward as a non-executive director of the PCT. Robin's vast experience, skills and knowledge of public services will complement those of other board members.

"The PCT is led by the board and the professionals executive committee, the combination of which ensures that decisions are made by an appropriate mix of professionals, front line staff and lay people from the Bury area."

In his new role, Mr Halward, who has two children, will be particularly concerned in health and social care issues affecting older people as the "Older People's Champion", as well as issues concerning fraud in the NHS.