National post for NNUH eye specialist

Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital consultant ophthalmologist Nick Astbury has been elected President of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists and is due to take up the post in May 2003 for a three year term.

Mr Astbury is currently the Ophthalmology clinical director for the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital NHS Trust and has been a consultant in Norwich since 1983. He practises general ophthalmology with a special interest in paediatric ophthalmology.

Nick was elected to the Council of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists in 1993 as regional representative for East Anglia.  In May 2000 he was elected to his current post as a Vice President with responsibility for professional standards. He obtained his medical degree from Guy’s Hospital Medical School in 1972. 

He trained as an ophthalmologist at The Sussex Eye Hospital in Brighton and St Thomas’ Hospital, Westminster Hospital, Moorfields and Kings College Hospitals in London from 1973-1982.  He also spent six months at the Princess Marina Hospital in Gaborone, Botswana, sponsored by the Royal Commonwealth Society for the Blind.  

Trust acting chief executive Anne Osborn said: “We are delighted that Nick has been elected to this very prestigious role and I’m sure his professionalism and skill will serve the Royal College of Ophthalmologists well during his term of office.”

Mr Astbury will continue with his work as a consultant the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital in addition to his role with the Royal College of Ophthalmologists.