A campaign was mounted to retain Hartlepool's main hospital

Friday marks the start of the three-month exercise to ask people for their comments on the review headed by Prof Sir Ara Darzi.

It recommended a centre of excellence in women's and children's services at Hartlepool's University Hospital.

But concerns have been raised that the changes would mean long journeys for local patients.

A campaign was mounted during the study, urging the retention of Hartlepool's main hospital, amid fears it would be closed in favour of a new �175m facility near Stockton.

'Important period'

But the review recommended the site remain, with the creation of additional centres of excellence.

Council bosses in Stockton have expressed concern over the plans and the impact on hospital services and patients there.

A committee has been set up to lead the consultation and put any changes into effect.

Chairman Ann O'Hanlon said: "This consultation is an important period for everyone who uses hospital services in our area to make their views known."

A leaflet setting out Prof Darzi's recommendations and information about how they can comment is being delivered to every house in the area.

A consultation document giving more detail has also been produced.