A NEW out-of-hours GP service was unveiled to members of the public at drop-in sessions in Winsford, Middlewich and North-wich last month.

The service, called NEW (Nights, Evenings and Weekends), will be in action from next month.

It has come about as a result of significant changes in doctors' responsibilities related to the new GP Contract due to be introduced. GPs will be responsible for patient care from 8am until 6.30pm, Monday to Friday, with the Central Cheshire Primary Care Trust (CCPCT) taking over at all other times.

A spokesman said: 'Many local people took the opportunity to discuss the reorganisation of this vital service.

'The roadshows were just a part of an ongoing programme of publicity to let people know of the changes in their out-of-hours service.

'The new telephone number to call, for anyone needing care after 6.30pm, or on weekends or bank holidays from April 1, is 01270 273666.'

Mike Pyrah, CCPCT chief executive, added: 'The change is a great opportunity to develop a quality service using the skills and experience of a multidisciplinary team including doctors, nurses and paramedics.

This NEW service will be starting on April 1 and will be responsible for providing care from 6.30pm until 8am Monday to Friday, all weekend and also on bank holidays.' You can obtain leaflets or book-marks giving information about the service, or you can discuss the service and how it may affect you, by calling 0800 567888, e-mailing information@ccpct.nhs.uk or writing to: Central Cheshire Primary Care Trust, Bevan House, Barony Road, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 5QU.