THE chairman of Bolton Community Health Council has secured a top regional post.

John Seddon, a tireless campaigner on behalf of people with learning difficulties, has been appointed vice chairman of the Greater Manchester Association of CHCs.

John, who lives in Blackrod, has been chairman of Bolton CHC for the past two years but has been actively involved with the health watchdog group for more than six years.

Recently put forward as chairman for a further four years, John's appointment to the regional post is a real feather in Bolton's cap.

"By speaking about issues of regional not just local importance then you can get a better idea of the wider picture and can hear about how other health authorities are tackling issues of the day," he said.

John and his colleagues have actively tackled various issues over the years including the reorganisation of both children's and renal services in the North-west.

Responsible for the day to day running of Shopmobility, chairman of Community Care Options, a trustee director of Spice and chairman of Crossroads, the carers support group, John is particularly concerned with promoting the rights of people with disabilities.

"I get a lot more out of the work I do than I put into it," said John. "I hope that my role will help the people of Bolton.

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