HEALTH staff across East Lancashire have been publicly thanked for their hard work and dedication during the recent flu crisis.

Chairman Bill Ashworth told members of the East Lancashire Health Authority that, although time and effort had been spent on planning for flu and winter pressures, the system had come near to the edge in one or two cases.

Mr Ashworth said they were now hopefully coming through the crisis, adding: "In East Lancashire we have to continue with the detailed planning between this authority and all the various trusts.

"A lot of time and effort has been spent doing just that. Hopefully, it has worked, although we have been near the edge in one or two cases recently.

"We are extremely grateful to everyone who has been working in the health service during this very difficult period."

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