A HOSPITAL manager certainly felt the heat when he was back at the coalface this week.

James Mawrey, director of workforce at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust which runs the Royal Bolton Hospital, left his office for a shift in the catering department.

The job swap scheme has been set up as part of the 70th anniversary celebrations of the NHS.

The trust has offered 70 job swap for staff so they can get to know other members of the team and find out about the vital roles they play in the running of the day-to-day operation.

And the scheme kicked off with James leaving his office to shadow the catering team. He was shown around the kitchens by Beverley Sharrocks, the catering manager and gained found out about the quality checks that have to be done to ensure the food is prepared and served to a high standard.

He said:"It’s been fantastic to get out and work with the catering team and witness first-hand what a brilliant job they do providing food for all our patients, visitors and staff.

"It was really interesting to see all the hard work that goes on behind the scenes in the kitchens and also get the opportunity to serve the patients on the wards.

"I’d really encourage all staff to get involved in this exercise and take the opportunity to work in an area you’d never normally get chance to visit."

James said: "Thanks to the catering team for allowing me to work with them and sharing their expertise."

Now others at the trust are being encouraged to get involved in the scheme, which will run until September 8.

A spokesman said the 70th birthday of the NHS is "the perfect opportunity to celebrate the achievements of one of the nation’s most loved institutions, to appreciate the vital role the service plays people lives, and to recognise and thank the NHS staff, who are there to guide, support and care for all, day in, day out".