AN MP has been given an insight into foot issues at a little-known centre in her home town.

Helen Goodman, MP for Bishop Auckland, said she had no idea the podiatric centre on Watling Road in the town existed but was impressed during her visit.

The centre has been run by New College Durham since 1974 and is currently home to almost 100 students.

The centre has between 2,000 and 3,000 patients from the south Durham area ranging from children to the elderly with a variety of foot complaints.

Students learn how to treat an array of foot-related illnesses and the centre can also make specially fitted insoles to suit individual patient’s needs.

It is the only podiatric training centre in the North East and Lesley Bryden, head of the college’s School of Management Heath and Social Work, said it can make a real difference to patients’ quality of life as well as student’s learning.

She said: “Appointments last around an hour and for some that interaction with our students is invaluable.

“Having bad or painful feet can affect other issues such as mobility and health so getting them treated is really important.”

Ms Goodman said: “It’s very good that this centre of excellence is tucked away in Bishop Auckland.

“I did not know it was here and I think that will be the same for many people, but what we have is a facility providing high quality care and treatment.

“If people are having problems with their feet they can contact their GP or the centre.”

Ms Bryden said prospective students interested in podiatry are also welcome to contact the centre on 01388-605161.