THE top man at the trust which runs Colchester’s hospitals is to embark on a second term of office – complete with an 11 per cent pay rise.

Richard Bourne has been appointed as chairman of Colchester Hospital University NHS Foundation Trust, for three years, starting on December 1.

His selection for the £40,000-a-year role was confirmed by the organisation’s members’ council, following a process that included the post being advertised nationally.

Hospital governor Des McCarron has criticised the amount of Mr Bourne’s pay award as it has increased by 11 per cent and the role of chairman is not a full-time post. Essex University maths graduate Mr Bourne will combine the role with his work as a management consultant for trade unions, local authorities and other health trusts. He also sits on the policy board of NHS Employers.

The former head of strategy at Royal London insurance’s old Colchester base, has defended his remuneration by saying the members’ council made an independent decision on how much cash he should get.

He said: “The job of being the chairman of a foundation trust is a very different job to chairing an ordinary trust.”

Following his selection, the former Colchester and Essex county Labour councillor said: “I am pleased to have been appointed to one of the most challenging jobs in my home town.

“I have been a life-long supporter of the NHS and I will do all I can to ensure local NHS services are protected and developed during what is going to be a very difficult period, locally and nationally.”