General surgeon in Harrogate NHS makes history in one of the world’s oldest medical institutions

Dr Clare McNaught, who currently works as a Consultant Colorectal and General Surgeon at Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust, will make history as the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh's first female President.

Currently Vice President of the College, Dr McNaught will officially take office tomorrow, November 14 at the College's AGM in the city.

Clare McNaught said: “It is an incredible honour to take on the role of President of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, an institution with such a rich history and a global impact.

“I feel privileged to represent a new chapter of progress for the surgical profession.

"Over the next three years, my priorities will focus on advancing surgical education, supporting the next generation of surgeons and fostering a culture of collaboration."

The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh was first incorporated as the Barber Surgeons of Edinburgh in 1505 and is based in Edinburgh, Birmingham and Malaysia.

It is one of the oldest surgical corporations in the world with a global membership of more than 33,000, including more than 15,000 members in the UK the majority of whom work and live in England.

Having most recently served as Vice President, Doctor McNaught has previously held a number of positions in the Surgeons College, including examiner, Regional Surgical Ambassador for Yorkshire, Surgeons News Editor, Founder and Chair of the Younger Fellows Committee and Honorary Secretary.

Clare, who is a general surgeon in the NHS with a particular interest in colorectal cancer and IBD, succeeds Professor Rowan Parks, who has served as the Surgeons College’s President for the last three years.

The ceremony will take place at the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh's iconic building on Nicolson Street, where Clare will outline her priorities for the upcoming three-year term in her first address as President.

The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, which has members in more than 100 countries, advocates on behalf of its members and patients to promote high standards and patient safety.