A HOSPITAL criticised for failings in its accident and emergency has appointed a new consultant to the department.

Dr Richard Hardern joins the casualty ward at the University Hospital of North Durham.

The department was criticised last week by North Durham coroner Andrew Tweddle, after it emerged that a woman, who had taken an overdose of prescription drugs, was left in a side room and later died.

At the inquest into the death of Maureen Matla, 47, of Tantobie, near Stanley, County Durham, Mr Tweddle recorded a verdict of "misadventure, contributed to by neglect".

He said there was a "gross failing" by the University Hospital of North Durham to provide basic medical attention for Mrs Matla, following her admission late on January 7.

The hospital launched an investigation into the incident in an attempt to prevent further tragedies, and promised it would strengthen the department.

A hospital spokesman yesterday denied that hiring Dr Hardern was linked to Mrs Matla's death. "The trust has wanted to strengthen its A and E department for some time," he said.

"This appointment was something that has been planned for quite a long time and is not specifically in response to this incident at all. It is simply a very busy department and needed another consultant."

Dr Hardern's appointment is one of four announced by North Durham Health Care NHS Trust yesterday.

Durham-born Dr Tim Petterson, a top expert in medical admissions, takes up a post as consultant for acute care.

Professor Peter Gray, formerly of the University of Capetown, South Africa, joins as chemical pathology consultant.

Dr Abdelhakim Gatnash will continue his work in community hospitals in Derwentside, as consultant physician for the elderly.

Trust chief executive Steve Mason said: "All of these appointments have attracted consultants of the highest calibre."