RICHMONDSHIRE'S health goes under the spotlight at a new forum proposed by the district council.

It is hoped that a wide range of professionals from the health service will be at an open meeting in Richmond, next Thursday.

Issues up for debate include emergency response times, changes in the structure of the NHS and differences in funding and facilities from area to area.

The district council is also preparing for a new role in healthcare after the demise of community health councils, which are to be phased out under Government legislation.

The council's leader, Councillor John Blackie, said: "Not only have we drawn up a draft health strategy, which will get its first airing next week, but we have taken every opportunity to talk to local people and health professionals through a variety of working groups and consultation meetings to get a real feel for the key issues facing the district.

"It is really as a result of this process that we have now invited all the key health bodies to take part in this forum to help us crystalise our thoughts still further. This will be invaluable when we come to draw up our next council plan and prepare to take on some of the responsibilities currently carried out by the community health councils."

The meeting at Swale House, in Frenchgate, begins at 7pm.