A BLACKBURN doctor has been named the North West's GP of the Year 2017.

Dr Neil Smith, who is also GP cancer lead across East Lancashire and Blackburn with Darwen, was given the prestigious award by the Royal College of General Practitioners.

The GP, who has been practicing for 22 years at Oakenhurst Medical Practice, which is now situated in Barbara Castle Way Health Centre, Blackburn.

Dr Smith, an ex pupil of St Mary’s College in Blackburn also works as stadium doctor at Ewood Park for Blackburn Rovers.

The Royal College of General Practitioners award recognises his work as a GP and as a GP educator.

As associate dean at Manchester Medical School, Dr Smith developed a ‘grow your own’ policy to encourage medical students to stay and work in the area, improving the quality of education and encouraged medical students to go into a career in general practice.

As a result of this he has mentored scores of junior doctors, 24 of whom are now working as GP colleagues including six in his own practice.

Dr Smith said: “I love working where I grew up and being a part of this wonderful community and area.

"I feel very fortunate to be surrounded with kind and caring colleagues, staff and patients.

"I want to ensure that patients can see and be treated by high quality GPs now and for the future.

"I am particularly passionate about improving cancer care, as I have seen the devastating effect of cancer on my patients and in the community where I live and work.

“I cannot emphasise enough, the importance of an early diagnosis as this does save lives. So if anyone is concerned about any symptoms always get them checked out as early as possible. By doing this you can rule cancer out; or if it is; get it treated quickly and successfully. It is a privilege to do my job and to receive this award.”