AN NHS mental health and learning disability trust has taken over responsibility for services in Harrogate, Hambleton and Richmondshire.

More than 500 nurses, psychiatrists, psychologists and other support staff transferred to Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust yesterday.

The trust, which already provides these services across County Durham, the Tees Valley, Scarborough and Ryedale, was awarded the contract by NHS North Yorkshire and York in January this year.

Chief executive Martin Barkley said: "We are committed to providing high quality care to the people who need our services.

"We are looking forward to working with staff and the people of Harrogate, Hambleton and Richmondshire to build on the excellent services that are already in place."

For more information on how to become a member of the trust, visit tewv.nhs.uk or visit one of the roadshows in Harrogate library on June 8, or Northallerton Civic Centre on June 15.