Friends Of St Mary's Chair Steps Down After 12 Years At The Helm

The Friends of St Mary's Hospital is entering a new chapter after its long-serving Chair, Lesley Myland, announced she is stepping down following 12 years of leadership.

Lesley, who became Chair in 2014, has overseen a period of significant fundraising and support for St Mary's Hospital, helping the charity fund equipment, facilities and projects that fall outside NHS budgets.

During her time in the role, the Friends of St Mary's has continued its work to enhance the experience of patients, visitors and staff across the Isle of Wight, while also navigating a number of challenges facing both the charity and the wider healthcare sector.

Although stepping down as Chair, Lesley will remain closely involved with the organisation after being appointed President of the Friends of St Mary's Hospital.

Reflecting on her time leading the charity, Lesley said:

"It has been a privilege to serve as Chair of the Friends of St Mary's Hospital for the past 12 years.

"During that time, I have had the opportunity to work alongside dedicated volunteers, trustees and Trust colleagues who share a passion for supporting patients, visitors and staff.

"I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together, particularly our ability to adapt and recover through challenging times while continuing to support the hospital through fundraising, donations and volunteering."

She added that she was looking forward to continuing her involvement with the charity in her new role as President.

Joe Smyth, Chief Officer of the Isle of Wight NHS Trust, paid tribute to Lesley's contribution.

"On behalf of the Trust, I would like to thank Lesley for her outstanding dedication and leadership over the past 12 years," he said.

"Through her commitment and passion, Lesley has helped the Friends of St Mary's Hospital make a lasting difference to patients, visitors and staff."

The charity has also confirmed the appointment of Tricia Smith MBE as its new Chair.

Tricia, who has previously served as a Trustee of the Friends, brings extensive experience from the health, voluntary and community sectors.

Having worked at St Mary's Hospital before retiring, she said she had seen first-hand the positive impact the charity has on patients, staff and visitors.

"It is an honour to have been appointed Chair," Tricia said.

"I look forward to working with our trustees, volunteers and partners to continue supporting the hospital and enhancing the care and services available to our Island community."

The Friends of St Mary's Hospital has supported the Island's NHS services for decades through fundraising, volunteering and donations, helping fund a range of projects and equipment designed to improve patient care.