PATIENTS in Wear Valley and Teesdale can book an appointment direct with their GP by using an Internet link.

A pilot scheme introduced by the Durham Dales Primary Care Trust (PCT) is already operating in the Bishopgate Medical Centre, Bishop Auckland, with the Weardale practice in Stanhope and the Station View Medical Centre, Bishop Auckland, looking to go on-line shortly.

Patients have to ask at their practice for a pin number sheet before registering using their own password and security question. Only a small number of appointments are released each week for direct patient booking.

Bishopgate's practice manager, Philip Jackson, said the service was operating well, with 153 active users.

He said: "It is hoped that the system will expand more rapidly as more and more patients go on-line."

Patient Herbert Bowen, from Bishop Auckland, said: "I don't have a lot of free time as I run a pub, so booking on-line saves me a lot of time.

Dr Stewart Findley, chairman of the trust's professional executive committee, said: "The PCT is keen to extend this on-line service within other practices in the Durham Dales area as it clearly is a benefit to busy people.

"Giving patients instant access to a GP appointment system will create a more efficient and effective service for the practice, and will also reduce pressure on receptionists and other practice staff."