Bellway has announced that Ted Ayres is to take a leave of absence from his role as chief executive for treatment for a medical condition.

John Watson, who served as group chief executive at before becoming chairman in 2013, will step in as executive chairman during the period of absence.

The housebuilder also announced that Jason Honeyman will be appointed to the Board as chief operating officer on September 1. Jason commenced employment with the company in January 2005 as managing director of the Thames Gateway Division, becoming southern regional chairman in December 2011.

John Watson said: “Jason is a highly respected senior operator in the industry and has considerable housebuilding experience having overseen the successful management of our Southern Divisions since 2011. His appointment to this new group role strengthens the operating structure and will support the delivery of the Company’s disciplined growth strategy.”

The Board and management team said they wished Ted a swift and full recovery and look forward to his return.