PATIENTS are to be invited to talk about what they feel are the key health issues facing their district.

The Patient and Public Involvement Forum for Derwentside has organised two meetings where residents will be invited to raise key issues and learn about the work of the forum and how to join.

The first meeting is in the Louisa Centre, in Stanley, on Saturday, January 29, from 9am to 4pm, and the second is at Lanchester Library, in Newbiggen Lane, Lanchester, from 10am to 4pm, on Thursday, February 3.

The forum of volunteers was set up by the Government 12 months ago to allow local people to shape their health services.

For further information, contact Janet Strong on (01207) 529621.