STAFF at a GP surgery were given the perfect tonic today after they were singled out as a shining example of good practice in the NHS.

Shadsworth Road Surgery in Blackburn has been awarded Beacon status for the excellence of its information management and technology facilities.

It is one of only 22 family doctor surgeries in the North West to receive the Government award, which also includes £4,000 cash.

The accolades are given to groups which display high quality or recent improvement in a service they provide.

Dr Alastair Murdoch, a GP at the surgery, said the staff were delighted with the award.

He said: "We believe that we have learnt useful lessons in this area that other practices could benefit from. This does not mean we think we are better than others. "There are several practices in Blackburn with Darwen that are local Beacons who do not want to be regional Beacons, but are nevertheless keen to share best practice.

"The principle of sharing best practice is an excellent one, so we will be looking at what others have achieved in other areas."

The practice will be asked by the NHS executive to organise at least six open days where visitors will be offered a programme to present IT activities.

Staff at the surgery will be offered development and skills opportunities.

The surgery will also be asked to act as a mentor to others wanting to develop IT skills.

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