A NEW Primary Care Trust (PCT) launched in east Durham promises to bring health improvements.

The Trust will act as a freestanding statutory body accountable to the County Durham and Tees Valley Strategic Health Authority.

Easington's MP John Cummings, who is fighting for new health funding for the district, welcomed the formation of the organisation, which will have the freedom to determine health priorities and allocate resources.

He said: "The Chancellor, Gordon Brown, in his budget, has given a significant boost to the NHS locally.

"A great responsibility has now been placed upon the new Primary Care Trust to deliver the improvements in health care that the public have every right to expect.

"I will be working closely with the new PCT board to make sure Easington receives its fair share of resources from the new financial settlement and to ensure that every penny is spent wisely,'' he said.

Over recent weeks Mr Cummings has met Health Minister John Hutton and made representations to Health Secretary Alan Milburn to press the case for an additional £10.5m for the Easington district.

He said the investment in health services would bring the area up to its target allocation.

Penny Young, the newly appointed chairman of the Easington PCT, said the Trust provided a chance build on the excellent foundations established by the original Primary Care Group.

She said: "I am looking forward to developing the partnership working within the district and the further involvement of patients, carers, the local communities and the district council, to improve the health and well-being of all who live and work in the district of Easington''.

The Primary Care Group became the PCT