The failure of Health Secretary Frank Dobson to personally deal with a major health issue in Ilkley has angered district councillor Anne Hawkesworth.

Coun Hawkesworth (Con, Ilkley) was one of three Conservative councillors who wrote to Mr Dobson, urging him to back a plan to make Ilkley part of a Wharfedale primary care group.

Along with councillors Martin Smith and Colin Powell, Coun Hawkesworth hoped Mr Dobson would listen to their fears, and the concerns of Ilkley GPs.

The fact the matter has not brought any direct response from the Health Secretary has left Coun Hawkesworth fuming.

She said: "I think for this matter to be brushed aside in such a way tells you a great deal. If this is the consideration shown to the feelings at grass- roots level I think it is a sham."

Ilkley's GPs and community nurses wanted to join with colleagues in Otley and Guiseley to form a Wharfedale primary care group.

Primary care groups will eventually take devolved responsibility for the health needs of their own communities.

As matters stand, Ilkley will split from its neighbours in Otley and Guiseley. Ilkley will form part of a primary care group including Haworth, Bingley, Keighley and Silsden.

l Ilkley's Labour Party also has health matters on its mind. Several members have formed a discussion group to review Labour's health consultation document.

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