A NEW public health boss has been appointed to lead the response to Covid-19. Alison Challenger will begin her new position as permanent Director of Public Health for West Sussex in April. She takes over from Dr Tony Hill who has been interim Director of Public Health since last November. Ms Challenger is currently Director of Public Health at Nottingham City Council and has a background in nursing and midwifery. Cllr Amanda Jupp, cabinet member for adults and health, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Alison to West Sussex. The role of Director of Public Health is crucial not only to our ongoing response to the coronavirus pandemic, but also to the long-term health of our residents.