The man appointed to head the inquiry into serial killer Harold Shipman has stepped down, blaming the extra work involved in a public hearing.

Lord Laming's decision follows successful legal moves by victims' families, which have been calling for a full public inquiry.

Health Secretary Alan Milburn was told by the High Court to reconsider his original decision to hold the inquiry behind closed doors.

He decided this week not to appeal against that ruling.

Lord Laming said: "Clearly the inquiry will now take longer than was envisaged when I was asked to become chairman.

"Mr Milburn understands fully that I have a number of commitments later this year and next year which will preclude me from devoting my time to the inquiry."

Elderly interests

He is patron of 15 national organisations, and an active member of the House of Lords, with special interest in fostering and care of the elderly.

The Health Secretary now plans to consult the relatives of Shipman's victims before deciding exactly what form the inquiry should take.

Shipman, a former family doctor in Hyde, Greater Manchester, was jailed for life in January for the murder of 15 elderly patients.

Police believe he may be responsible for many more deaths.

The inquiry is expected to focus on why his killing spree went undetected for so long.