NINE cancer patients died after a surgeon failed to give them potentially life-saving treatment, NHS bosses admitted today.

An investigation has been launched following claims that patients of North-East consultant Ron Rhind had not been offered every treatment available.

Officials at Shotley Bridge Hospital and Dryburn Hospital, in County Durham, are contacting patients who were under Mr Rhind's care for bladder cancer.

Mr Rhind, who is now retired, was a consultant at Shotley Bridge and Dryburn between 1995 and 1999.

He had previously worked at Hartlepool General Hospital between 1980 and 1995.

North Durham Health Care Trust confirmed today that it had contacted management at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Trust with its concerns.

A report published this morning says nine patients died after not being given the recommended treatment.

Anyone worried about this issue can contact a helpline set up by NHS Direct at 0845 46 47.

Updated: 16.05 Tuesday, June 26