A dental surgery will be offering more NHS treatment after recruiting the area's only female dentist.

The arrival of Nina Wilson, 33, at the Castledene Dental Surgery, in Peterlee, means an extra 1,500 patients will be able to get NHS treatment.

Ms Wilson said: "I spent six months working at Castledene a few years ago and knew the high standards the dental team works to and had no problem accepting the offer of employment."

As well as better access to NHS services at the surgery, £55,000 has been invested in equipment and facilities.

Easington Primary Ccre Trust contributed £20,000 to the improvement scheme.

The surgery now boasts an updated dental suite, air-conditioning, improved reception area, and an intra-oral camera, which allows patients to see pictures of dental decay and plaque in their mouth.

Principal dentist Paul Ambler said: "I'm really pleased that Nina has joined the team. She is an experienced dentist who will contribute enormously to improving access to NHS dental services for local patients.

"I am also pleased to be working in partnership with Easington Primary Care Trust to provide an improved, more modern environment for patients to receive dental treatment and oral health advice."

Ms Wilson's appointment follows the launch of the primary care trust's Big Project, a multi-million pound drive to attract doctors and dentists to east Durham.