ONE of the region's leading primary care experts has joined County Durham and Tees Valley Strategic Health Authority as an advisor.

Professor Tim van Zwanenberg, director of postgraduate general practice education at Newcastle University, will provide general practice advice and support.

He has a broad range of experience as a GP, senior health service manager and academic in the UK and abroad.

Prof van Zwanenberg, who has worked as a GP in North Shields, said: "For me, patient care comes first and I am looking forward to working at the Strategic Health Authority, providing professional advice and strengthening the bridge between the NHS and general practice education at the University."

Ken Jarrold, chief executive of the authority, said: "Professor van Zwanenberg brings to the authority skills and experience from a very successful career that will enable him to make a significant contribution to the local NHS."