A PRESTWICH GP has been appointed as the new chair of NHS Bury Clinical Commissioning Group.

Dr Jeffrey Schryer, who works a Whittaker Lane Medical Centre, will take over the role from Dr Kiran Patel from April 1, for a three year term.

A GP for over 28 years, Dr Schryer, who has seven children and seven grandchildren, will also continue to work at the Prestwich centre.

He said: “I feel privileged to have been appointed as chair of NHS Bury CCG and look forward to taking over the reins in this key role, as health and care in Bury enters an exciting new chapter."

Dr. Schryer, who is GP Dementia Lead for the Strategic Clinical Network in Greater Manchester, has served as the CCG's clinical director since October 2014, sitting on the Governing Body and taking a lead on mental health, dementia and primary care.

Over his career he has also run the North Manchester GP Vocational Training Scheme, been an Associate Dean at Manchester Medical School, and worked in a prison providing primary care services.

He said: "During my time on the Governing Body as Clinical Director, I have felt proud of what we have achieved in Bury to improve health and care locally, from the teams who plan services behind the scenes, to the work of our GP practices and other providers who deliver care at the frontline.”

“Despite the strides we have taken to improve health and care there is always more to do, and as Bury transforms health and social care over the coming years to meet the needs of local people in the future.

"I feel ready for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead to continually improve the quality and standards of care."

Dr Schryer also thanked Dr Patel for his work and commitment to developing and improving health services as chair of the CCG.

Stuart North, Chief Officer for NHS Bury CCG added: “The Governing Body and I are delighted to welcome Jeff as Chair of NHS Bury CCG from April.

"Jeff brings a wealth of varied experience to the CCG, from working on the frontline as a GP, to planning and commissioning services through his role as Clinical Director of the CCG since 2014.

"Moving into the role of Chair of the CCG is a natural next step for Jeff, and I wish him all the best in his new role.”