Three new non-executive directors have joined the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST).

Tom Spink, Alison Wigg and Lizzy Firmin have been appointed to the trust's board of directors, which functions as the decision-making body for the organisation.

The trust said Ms Firmin had 'extensive board experience' from both the private and public sector and in the past worked for North East Essex Clinical Commissioning Group and the UK Border Force.

She said: 'Having held previous non-executive positions within the NHS, I would say I am very passionate about our health service and the people who work within it. Having also worked for frontline operational organisations for many years in executive positions, I feel I have some understanding of the types of challenges we face here at EEAST.

'From what I have seen so far, it is clear that the people who work for EEAST are very driven, loyal and committed to what they do, which is inspiring. I am very excited about getting out and about in the organisation and meeting more staff; it is the best way the board can learn about what matters and how we need to prioritise our efforts.'

Mr Spink has more than 20 years of experience at board level, 16 of those with Aviva.

He said: 'I'm excited about joining the trust on its journey and making it one of the most effective ambulance trusts in the country. That's my real objective.'

While Ms Wigg has worked in telecoms in the UK and USA for the last 20 years.

She is currently a general manager with British Telecom where she has been an investment board member for the past six years.

Ms Wigg is keen to bring her technological background into her new role.

She said: 'I'm really look forward to getting a better understanding of the NHS and the ambulance service, whilst also using some of my 20 plus years working in telecommunications to help provide other insights and experience to help the trust move forward.'