HEALTH bosses have renewed their plea for fluoride to be added to Leigh's water supply.

A report by Wigan and Bolton Health Authority condemned North West Water's repeated refusal and said it is "unethical and inequitable" that children in other parts of the country enjoy the benefits of fluoridated water. Dental health in Wigan and Bolton is among the worst in the country. In a survey of 199 health districts, Wigan was 187th and Bolton 194th.

The combined total of cavities in five year olds for both boroughs was the highest in the North-west.

Despite efforts by health bosses and numerous campaigns, levels of decay have remained consistently high.

At a health authority meeting, headteacher and non-executive director Mike Chapman, said: "This is one of the first times I have seen it written down so clearly that this health authority acknowledges the very real health benefits of fluoridating our water supply.

"There's no point in preaching to children about the benefits of fluoride in toothpaste, when many do not even have a toothbrush.

"Our support for fluoridation of the water supply should be emphasised to ensure all our children have the same chance to preserve dental health."

A health authority survey revealed both towns have enough dentists and the number of residents registered with NHS dentists is well above the regional average.

Jim Sumner, Director of Primary Care, said: "We can not afford to be complacent and must encourage registrations.

"We must also keep on pushing for the fluoridation of our water supply and the use of sugar free medicines."

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