AN MP has welcomed the announcement that a hospital's accident and emergency department is to remain open – and has expressed his hope that this is a long-term decision.

Alex Cunningham, Stockton North MP, was speaking after NHS bosses confirmed key services will be retained for the foreseeable future at North Tees Hospital in Stockton.

A spokeswoman for NHS North of England Commissioning Support said the plans, concerns about which surfaced in 2015 and also included major changes to maternity and paediatric services, had been abandoned after receiving "extremely helpful" feedback.

Mr Cunningham said: “I very much welcome the decision to retain the accident and emergency department at North Tees Hospital.

"It was the number one issue for voters during last year’s General Election campaign and I’ve been working with local campaigners to lobby NHS officials and the Government about the retention of the service.

"I am pleased to see that NHS bosses have listened to people’s concerns and acted accordingly.

“I note, however, that Mr Foster did not commit to the longer-term future of North Tees’ A&E department, so will continue to press him and the Government too for assurances that North Tees Hospital will always be home to a local A&E service”