THE chief executive of West Wiltshire Primary Care Trust is to leave her post at the end of April.

Donna Stiles, who has worked within the NHS for the past 19 years, is planning to start a new life in Italy.

She said: "Sometimes in life an opportunity comes along to fulfil a dream and the only thing you can really do is follow your heart and take it. For the 19 years that I have worked in the NHS I have been extremely fortunate to have worked with people with a passion and dedication to improve the lives of others.

"I know now that I will miss this company, the many friends that I have made in the service and the humour we have shared."

PCT chairman Shiena Bowen praised Mrs Stiles' energy and dynamism and her enthusiasm for the local NHS.

She said: "We all wish Donna well. We are fortunate in that we have a highly professional and committed team in every area of our work and you can be assured that it is business as usual at West Wiltshire Primary Care Trust."

MP Andrew Murrison has also expressed his regret he will no longer be working with Mrs Stiles.

He said: "She has worked hard in a demanding post and at a time of great change for healthcare locally. I wish her well in the fresh challenges ahead and in her new life in Italy."