PENDLE MP Andrew Stephenson has thanked the NHS after the Barnoldswick eye screening clinic was reopened after a temporary suspension.

The Diabetic Eye Screening Programme, which checks for problems caused by diabetes that can lead to sight loss if undetected and left untreated, was relocated to Colne after its original venue in Barnoldswick was closed.

However, after Mr Stephenson raised residents’ concerns about the closure, a new home was quickly found and opened on June 12 at the Rainhall Centre.

Mr Stephenson said, “Diabetic eye problems are serious and must not go undetected. It was unacceptable that Barnoldswick residents were left with a trip to Colne to undergo this vital screening.

“I welcome the quick action from the NHS to find a new venue to reopen the clinic and trust that it will remain in the Rainhall Centre in the long-term. West Craven residents need public services to be available locally and I will continue to fight to keep services like the eye clinic in the area.”