The boss of the region's biggest hospital has announced he is leaving his role in a matter of weeks.

Sam Higginson, who has led the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital since October 2019, is set to stand down later in the summer to return to NHS England.

Mr Higginson joined the trust as CEO from the Cambridge Univeristy Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, where he was the chief operating officer.

He leaves to take up a role at NHS England, where he will work on its national outpatient recovery programme.

It is not the first time he has held a key role at the national NHS body, having previously served as the organisation's director of strategic finance.

Mr Higginson said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at team N&N, working with outstanding and dedicated colleagues who work tirelessly for our patients.

"I will miss everyone and would like to express my sincere gratitude to our staff for their tremendous efforts over the last few years."

It means the hospital is now on the hunt for a new chief executive, with officials aiming to appoint his successor in a "short number of weeks".

Tom Spinks, chairman of the N&N, said: "I would like to take this opportunity to thank Sam for leading us through one of the most difficult periods for the NHS through the pandemic and afterwards with our recovery plans.

"He has met these challenges with determination and continued to strive hard in the interest of our patients.

"We are seeking a replacement for Sam and will be appointing an interim CEO in a short number of weeks to ensure we have continuity across our services for the benefit of our patients."

James Mackey, NHS England national director of elective recovery, said: "Sam has led the way in modernising outpatient services in Norfolk and Norwich and we look forward to benefitting from his experience and expertise."