A hospice boss has stepped down amid one of its biggest projects in decades.

Andy Smith, chief executive of Havens Hospice has stepped down from the role.

It comes after more than 18 years in the role and follows a period of discussion with the trustees about the leadership of the organisation and the management of its directors.

A hospice spokesman said: "This decision will afford Andy the opportunity to pursue other work and aspirations at this stage in his career and it will allow the Trustees to make decisions and move the organisation forward in accordance with their aims.

"The Trustees have expressed their thanks and gratitude to Andy for his long period of leadership of the organisation. Andy has likewise expressed his very best wishes for the future of Havens Hospices.

"The Trustees will now take the opportunity to review and develop the responsibilities of the charity’s management and governance. The charity has appointed an Acting CEO whilst that review takes place."

Havens Hospices is entering an exciting period of change with new Fair Havens Hospice due to open in 2020.

The charity remains incredibly grateful to the community for its continued support of the hospice care provided at Fair Havens, Little Havens and The J’s, which is free of charge for those who need it.