A Swedish technique that can "cure" stress incontinence in women has been used in the North-East for the first time.

The procedure, which involves injecting a drug called Zuidex, has been performed on women at the University Hospital of Hartlepool.

Carried out by surgeon Safwat Tosson, the procedure strengthens the sphincter muscle around the woman's urethra.

Research has shown it has better results than other methods of treatment, with sufferers reporting a reduction in incontinence and improved bladder functions up to a year after surgery.

Lesley, from Hartlepool, one of the first women from the region to benefit from the procedure, had suffered urinary stress incontinence for several years.

"I have two young children and just doing everyday stuff caused problems for me. Since having the procedure I am back to normal, I'm really pleased," she said.

Mr Tosson, a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at the Hartlepool hospital, travelled to Sweden to undergo specialist training in the technique.

"This procedure has had tremendous results elsewhere in the country and I am confident it will go a long way towards helping many patients throughout Hartlepool and east Durham to regain their quality of life," he said.