Mystery surrounding the departure of Nick Hulme, chief executive of Croydon Health Services NHS Trust, to move to a neighbouring NHS trust has come under attack by both Conservative and Labour councillors.

Mr Hulme resigned on Tuesday February 28, following almost a month of unexplained absence which fuelled speculation about his future.

He has been handed a position in project management at Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust.

The uncertainly over leadership of the trust, after a critical report from the Care Quality Commission found issues with Croydon University Hospital’s handling of dementia patients and dealing with complaints, led to Council leader Mike Fisher issuing a statement criticising the "failures in the local leadership of our NHS".

Jane Avis, shadow cabinet member for health, said: "The lack of transparency is shocking. When I heard he had resigned I felt he had done the right thing, he had taken responsibility for the failings highlighted in the CQC report.

"I find it incredible he has just moved onto another job. I’m not saying he should be cut off from being involved in health for ever but he shouldn’t be able to just walk away from a damning report and think it is ok."

Margaret Mead, cabinet member for health, said an earlier announcement would have eased concern.

She said: "The earlier you can come out a give a statement on the situation the better for clarity for all the people who use the service. It would have been in everybody’s better interest had the information been in the public domain earlier."

Deputy chief executive Tony Leonard has stepped in as an interim replacement following Mr Hulme’s departure.

A spokesman from the Trust said: "The next twelve months remain an important time for the Trust as we continue to focus on providing high quality care to the people of Croydon and securing our future by becoming a Foundation Trust."