A PHARMACIST has been appointed to lead one of Darlington's key health bodies.

Carol Charlton is the new chairman of Darlington Primary Care Trust's (PCT) Professional Executive Committee (PEC), replacing Dr Richard Harker.

The PEC comprises representatives from across healthcare professions including GPs, nurses, dentists, optometrists and physiotherapists. It works closely with the trust's board in managing health care.

"It is a demanding and challenging role," said Mrs Charlton, who has been the pharmacy representative on the PEC for more than two years.

"Darlington PCT has already achieved so much, including the walk-in centre, and I am keen to drive forward initiatives which will improve the health and lives of the people of Darlington."

Mrs Charlton said access to care was a priority, but she also hoped people would take responsibility for their own health.

"It must be better for everyone to avoid becoming ill in the first place by adopting healthy lifestyles," she said.

She said Darlington PCT was committed to helping people with chronic illnesses and providing treatment and support appropriate to their needs.

Mrs Charlton was born in Cheshire, trained in Leicester and Middlesbrough and has been a community pharmacist for more than 20 years.