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Jersey's Medical Officer of Health is to retire due to illness.

Dr Rosemary Geller, who has held the position since 2005, has been suffering from a chronic back condition.

Minister of Health, Deputy Anne Pryke, paid tribute to her saying she had done a wonderful job in often challenging times including the swine flu epidemic.

During her illness Dr Geller's role has been filled by her deputy, Dr Susan Turnbull, who will continue while the future of the department is decided.

Dr Geller's career included time in Shropshire where she was Director of Public Health and Health Strategy.

She was also elected President of the National Association of Directors of Public Health in 1998.