A REPORT which says fluoridation of water is an effective way of reducing tooth decay has been welcomed by the region's top health body.

Cumbria and Lancashire Strategic Health Authority has also welcome the Government's decision to study the implications of the Medical Research Council's report and offer guidance to the NHS.

Fluoridation was thrust back on to the agenda locally last month after action by Hyndburn and Ribble Valley Primary Care Trust. It discussed whether to lobby to have the chemical added to water supplies in the light of a new survey which showed East Lancashire to be 94th out of 99 health authorities.

The PCT was due to debate it at its next board meeting on Thursday but it has been put back to allow time for an anti-fluoridation campaigner to speak to board members.

Director of Public Health for Cumbria and Lancashire, Dr Ann Hoskins, said until the Department of Health issued guidelines there could be no change in the strategic authority's position.

She said: "We know from over 70 years of research that fluoridation is a safe and effective means of preventing tooth decay in individuals and in reducing inequalities in dental health.

"It's a proven fact that children who grow up in fluoridated areas have stronger teeth, fewer fillings and less instances of painful toothache.

"Yet sections of the community continue to have concerns about fluoride and it is in the public interest that these concerns should be fully investigated.

"That's why we welcome the further research that is to take place and we await the guidance with interest."