CRITICISM of patient watchdog groups by Health Secretary Alan Milburn was rebuked by Burnley Community Health Council chairman Frank Clifford in his annual address.

He said Mr Milburn's comments on "poor performance" of community health councils amounted to a sweeping generalisation and were unfortunate.

He told the CHC's annual meeting in Nelson that like MPs, health councils had good and bad performers and the Burnley group could be justifiably proud of its performance.

"Mr Milburn should be more careful in what he says," he told members.

Mr Clifford said that despite Government plans to scrap CHCs, the Burnley organisation would continue to work enthusiastically to serve the needs and concerns of all patients.

"We have a proud record of achievement in a year in which we have again shown we are in tune with the people we represent. "

He said that with a total budget of less than £80,000, the CHC delivered a first class service and excellent value for money.

He said successes over the past year included winning major improvements in the eating disorder and occupational therapy services, helping the Stepping Stones community initiative win extra funding to allow it to continue its service and helping to progress plans for a new £14million hospital for Rossendale.