An expert on diabetes has been appointed as a consultant endocrinologist by the Bermuda Hospitals Board.

Andrew Jamieson, from, Glasgow, Scotland, previously worked to tackle the disease in the United Arab Emirates.

Dr Jamieson said: “I am looking forward to serving the community and working to improve health outcomes for diabetics in this beautiful island.”

He will replace Annabel Fountain, who was director of endocrinology until the end of 2017.

Diabetics in Bermuda have an average age of 57, eight years younger than in Britain.

Health experts have warned the diabetes rate is increasing because 74 per cent of the adult population is overweight or obese.

Dr Jamieson, who came top of his class at the prestigious Glasgow University medical school, has been appointed on an initial two-year contract.

He trained in endocrinology in Glasgow and worked as a consultant endocrinologist for NHS Scotland for 17 years before he became deputy medical director of the Valiant Clinic in Dubai.

He has also authored many published articles on clinical aspects of diabetes, endocrinology and osteoporosis.

Michael Richmond, the BHB chief of staff, said: “We are fortunate to have Dr Jamieson join the BHB team.

“His knowledge and expertise in diabetes and his experience in managing the disease in Dubai, a high-diabetes-prevalence area, will benefit the entire Bermuda community.”