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Tue, 25 Jan 2011

Healthcare Locums (HCL) has suspended executive vice chairman, Kate Bleasdale and chief financial officer, Diane Jarvis pending the outcome of an investigation.

The announcement follows a statement by the healthcare staffing specialist’s board that it has been made aware of “serious accounting irregularities” and that it will be carrying out an immediate investigation.

The statement says: “Serious accounting irregularities have been brought to the attention of the board as a result of which the company will be carrying out an immediate investigation to consider the financial implications.

“The company also announces that both executive vice chairman, Kate Bleasdale and chief financial officer, Diane Jarvis have been suspended pending the outcome of the investigation.

“HCL announces that the ordinary shares of the company have been suspended from trading on AIM with immediate effect.

“The board has strong reason to believe that the financial performance of HCL for the year to 31 December 2010 will be materially below market expectations.

“A further announcement will be made in due course.”