DOCTORS surgeries in the region are benefiting from a course in training practice managers at a North-East college.

A group of nine practice managers from all over the region have achieved a 100 per cent pass rate at Redcar and Cleveland College's Practice Manager Diploma.

The aim of the year-long course is to prepare participants to respond to the changes in the NHS and gain management skills.

Louise Ruecroft, who works at a GP's practice in Sedgefield, gained an overall distinction and achieved the highest mark in the country for her work.

She said: "This has really been a joint achievement, the group worked well together and the help and mutual support of its members has been a crucial part of the groups overall success. We have built up excellent friendships through the course and I am delighted we did so well."

Susan Prout, who works for Maag (Medical Advisory Group) on Teesside, also gained a distinction and achieved the third highest mark in the country.

Lecturer Julie Prince said: "This is an outstanding achievement for each of the nine candidates. They have all received excellent results and have highlighted the work of Redcar and Cleveland College in connection with this extremely challenging qualification.

"The college is extremely proud of the class of 2001 and are confident that both doctors and their patients in the region will also benefit from their success."