NONNIE Crawford has been appointed director of public health for Darlington Primary Care Trust (PCT).

In her new role, Miss Crawford will be central to the trust's role of protecting and securing the health of the population of Darlington.

A significant part of the work will be working in partnership with local government, education and other agencies to create a joint approach to addressing major health problems facing local people.

Miss Crawford's professional background is in dentistry. She moved into public health in the late 1990s, working for Sunderland Health Authority as a consultant in dental public health from June 2000.

She said: "I am delighted to be joining Darlington PCT and borough council and look forward to working with all partners to improve health for local residents.

"I will also be working with my colleagues in the PCT and public health colleagues across County Durham and Tees Valley to deliver better health and health care services across the Health Authority."

Colin Morris, chief executive of Darlington PCT, said: "I am delighted that Nonnie has been appointed to this vital post and I look forward to working with her in delivering the challenging health improvement agenda for the people of Darlington.