THE Winchester and Eastleigh Health Trust has appointed a new chief executive to replace Chris Evennett.

Martin Wakeley, 38, is due to take up his new post, based at the Royal Hampshire County Hospital, in August.

Mr Wakeley, married with three children, is currently deputy chief executive of a health trust in Manchester.

News of the appointment comes as the trust's annual accounts, published this week, show that it broke even in 2006/7 after running up debts of £3m last year.

The trust now plans to act on its long-delayed plans to bid for foundation status, giving more independence from Government.

In a statement, Mr Wakeley said: "I am delighted to be joining the trust at this exciting time and look forward with staff, patients and its many friends in achieving foundation status in 2008."