Trafford’s first permanent children’s services boss in over a decade has been drafted in.

In January Jill McGregor will take over the service that watchdog Ofsted rated “inadequate” earlier this year.

In March, inspectors found children in Trafford had been left in neglectful circumstances for “too long” and leaders weren’t aware of their service’s weaknesses.

Ofsted revisited the borough this week to check in on progress, after some improvements were made over the summer.

Now, Ms McGregor, who is currently assistant director of children’s social care in Rochdale, has been chosen to take the helm.

A Trafford Council spokesperson said Ms McGregor has “a proven track record of leading children’s social care services” as she worked at several councils in the north east before joining Rochdale in 2016.

In Rochdale, Ms McGregor is responsible for the development of children’s services, which employs nearly 250 staff.

Ms McGregor said: “I am delighted to accept this role, and I am looking forward to the challenge of ensuring the children’s services we deliver in Trafford make a real and positive difference to the lives of our children, young people and families.”

Sara Todd, Trafford Council’s chief executive, said: “Jill was an excellent candidate and I am confident that she will bring a wealth of talent and experience to this important position.

“I look forward to welcoming Jill to Trafford and to her helping us  improve children’s services in the borough.”