The Government has given the go-ahead for new independent sector treatment centres (ISTC) in Lancashire.

Health Secretary Alan Johnson said NHS patients in Cumbria and Lancashire will get reduced waiting times and more choice following the deal with private provider Capio, which will deliver health services in the North West.

Around 11,000 NHS procedures such as general surgery and orthopaedics will be delivered at Capio's local sites including one in Euxton near Chorley.