A WELL-known Airedale Hospital consultant has retired.

Dr Chris Healey began his medical 'journey' at the University of Sheffield, where he graduated with an honours degree in 1987.

He trained in his chosen speciality of gastroenterology and pursued a career which took him across the country – including Nottingham, Bristol, Oxford and Cambridge – before returning to his native Yorkshire to take up the appointment at Airedale Hospital.

Dr Healey has held positions with NHS England and the Joint Advisory Group on GI Endoscopy, through which he's been involved in helping to improve endoscopy services nationally and influenced policy.

Despite work demands, he has kept active in the community.

He is a long-standing member of Airedale Male Voice Choir, and more recently joined Bradford Festival Chorus.

Dr Healey is also a founder member of the Airedale Dodgers charity running group, helping to raise funds for Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice Manorlands through events such as the Solstice Saunter.

And he has taken on challenges including marathons and a bike ride to Paris in aid of good causes.

Dr Healey says he's now looking forward to further pursuing interests such as live music and improving his skills on the ballroom dance floor.