Hospitals were ordered to change their logo despite warnings from health service executives that the move would “cost an absolute fortune,” a report reveals.

Every hospital has been issued with instructions to alter their publicity materials, moving the “NHS” lozenge so it is above the name of the trust, instead of beside it.

The move - revealed by the Telegraph last month - prompted fury from patients groups, with concern about the use of resources when the NHS is facing the greatest financial crisis in its history.

The measure is being introduced by an “NHS identity team” following a two year review.

Health officials said the changes would reduce “confusion and concern” among the public, claiming that current inconsistencies in use of the format could be fuelling pressure on Accident & Emergency units.

But the team’s research reveals that health officials were repeatedly warned that trusts could not afford to make such changes, and could not justify spending such sums.