Middleton GPs are to harness the internet with a pilot scheme to hold 'virtual' consultations with patients online.

They are to utilise special video-conferencing software enabling them to speak to any patient with an internet connection.

It means they will be some of the first medics in the country to offer online appointments instead of face-to-face consultations in their surgeries.

Dr Mohammed Jiva , who is leading the project on behalf of the Middleton GP practices taking part, said: “With tighter resources we need to find new ways of delivering high quality health care, and that's what this project is about.

“All the Middleton practices are working together to give our patients more choice, flexibility and more convenient ways of accessing GP care and advice.”