New role for ex-councillor

Local exec committee member Vilnis Vesma has been elected chairman of Newent doctors' Patient Participation Group (PPG) which acts as a "critical friend" helping the Practice to improve its performance.

Vilnis is experienced in this kind of work, having previously served as chairman at the Forest of Dean District Council's scrutiny committee.

At the time of writing no formal method has been set up for residents to contact the PPG but Vilnis is happy to take calls on 0777 378 1427. Please note that the PPG cannot deal with individual complaints. It only concerns itself with issues that are likely to affect numerous people.