Ref. 28178-05John Archer, 66, is one of seven people to have joined the Swindon and Marlborough NHS Trust Forum so far.

There are spaces for up to 20 members.

Mr Archer, formerly a Labour member of Swindon Council and Wiltshire County Council, said: "It is with a great deal of pride that I have put myself forward to help.

"I have a lot of faith in the NHS and have received some wonderful treatment myself over the years.

"I hope to fulfil the aspirations of each and every one of us with regards to the NHS. I am just a small cog in a big machine. It's all about team effort."

Mr Archer, of Frome Road, Greenmeadow, underwent reconstructive surgery some 25 years ago after suffering from gangrene of the jaw.

He said: "Staff at the former Princess Margaret Hospital couldn't have treated me any better.

"They certainly saved my life a few times and I think they do a wonderful job.

"On that particular occasion I was told it was so urgent I had just 24 hours to live. The surgeon came back to work from his holidays to help me."

The former British Rail senior supply supervisor added: "As yet we don't know what our first job will be. We have only just been appointed.

"But it will be very important for us all to gel as a team."