PATIENTS are being urged to return equipment they no longer need.

County Durham and Darlington Home Equipment Loans Service lends devices to people with illnesses and disabilities to help with their rehabilitation and care.

Last year, it loaned out 57,000 pieces of equipment, ranging from beds and hoists to bath aids. However, not all of it has been returned by people who no longer need it.

Paul Allison, manager of the scheme for Durham and Chester-le-Street Primary Care Trust, said: "The service provided by the home equipment loans team is vital in helping people to maintain their independence and remain in their own homes.

"We want local people to help us, by telling us if they or a relative have been loaned equipment that they no longer need or use.

"We will then arrange collection and ensure that the equipment is loaned to other people who are in need of it."

The service can be contacted from 10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday, on (01388) 812812.