HEALTH watchdogs in Bolton have reacted angrily to suggestions that people should pay £10 for a doctor's appointment.

A recent survey of GPs shows that a large majority of them think patients should be charged for appointments to stop people not turning up.

But the idea has been slammed Bolton's health watchdogs who claim it would stop people going to the doctors, leading to worsening health problems.

John Seddon, chairman of local watchdog Bolton Community Health Council, said they would fight the decision if it was ever introduced.

He added: "I am totally against people paying to see a doctor through the National Health Service. What about the elderly, the unemployed or youngsters or those who can't afford it? It is wrong."

The survey by the NHS Support Federation and Middlesex University shows that missed doctors' appointments are costing the NHS at least £185 million a year.

GPs have an average of 18 patients failing to show each week and practice nurses average eight missed appointments.

In Greater Manchester and Lancashire 62pc of doctors questioned agreed that people should pay to see them, which was higher than the national average of 52pc.

But the community health councils are adamant charges would be detrimental to health.

Mr Seddon said: "If charges were introduced it could have serious effects on people's health because they would avoid going and things that would be fairly simple if treated early could develop into something more serious. It would inevitably end up costing the NHS more money."