Banbury’s Horton General Hospital is to lose its director after current holder Mike Fleming announced his retirement.

Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust said it will not replace Mr Fleming, right, who steps down at the end of March.

The trust, which is cutting its budget by 10 per cent, appointed Mr Fleming in 2003.

Last night, George Parrish, chairman of the Keep the Horton General campaign, said he was concerned by the move.

Mr Parrish said: “It doesn’t seem a good idea. We need somebody like Mike to be there to speak to if we need anything.”

The trust said the role will be covered by director of clinical services Paul Brennan, who is usually based at Oxford’s John Radcliffe Hospital.

Trust spokesman Alison Barnes said: “There will continue to be an executive office and support at the Horton to ensure smooth integration and communication for services delivered.”