THE Government's decision to retain Hartlepool Primary Care Trust (PCT) in its current form has been welcomed by councillors.

It had been widely expected that a merger of the PCT with its counterparts in Middlesbrough, Stockton and Redcar and Cleveland to create a single supertrust would be given the go-ahead.

The reprieve was hailed as great news for the town by both Hartlepool Mayor Stuart Drummond and Councillor Ray Waller, portfolio holder for adult and public health services.

Mr Drummond said: "We put forward a very strong case for the retention of the town's PCT, and I am delighted that the Government has listened to us.

"This decision will safeguard the successful partnership working that is already helping us to tackle some key health issues in the town, and it will also allow us to further shape services to directly address the needs of local people."

Coun Waller said: "I am delighted that, having sent a delegation from Hartlepool to press the Government for the retention of our PCT. Ministers appear to have listened to us. "