A HEALTH forum run by members of the public has been launched, aiming to serve communities across west Wiltshire.

The Public and Patients Involvement Forum discusses health issues with residents and scrutinises the West Wiltshire Primary Care Trust.

The new chairman has called for more people to get involved before the group's first public meeting this month.

Peter Biggs said: "One of the main problems with the NHS is the process in which they make contact with the public.

"This PPI Forum will be monitoring the PCT, providing information to the public and getting feedback from communities.

"We encourage anyone interested in making a difference in local health issues to get involved."

The first PPI Forum meeting takes place at Coulston Village Hall on January 21 at 6pm. More information on PPI Forums can be found at www.cppih.org