ENGLAND’S deputy chief medical officer Professor Sir Jonathan Van-Tam is to leave his role at the end of March.

He is to take up a new role as pro-vice chancellor for the faculty of medicine and health sciences at the University of Nottingham.

Sir Jonathan, who is known for his use of analogies to explain coronavirus, said in a statement: “We all wish Covid had never happened.

“Notwithstanding, it has been the greatest privilege of my professional career to have served the people of the UK during this time.”

He paid tribute to chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty and other scientists, public health professionals and clinicians who supported him.

“There are countless numbers who work behind the scenes, all of whom have an unrelenting commitment to help and support the British public.”

Prof Whitty said: “I am profoundly thankful for his steadfast support, advice, leadership and commitment. His communication of public health advice and science has been remarkable.”

Prime Minister Boris Johnson thanked Sir Jonathan “for his extraordinary contribution to our country and his invaluable advice throughout the pandemic.”

Health Secretary Sajid Javid said it had been an “honour to work with the national treasure.”