CRITICISM of the hospital trust is demoralising staff, a health chief has claimed.

Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust chairman Michael O'Riordan said he was saddened some sections of the community only seemed to want to find fault.

Writing in the trust's newsletter he said: "Whether it is political points scoring, a chance to write some sensational headlines, or simply the satisfaction of having a good old moan, we do seem to attract more than our fair share of criticism.

"I know how demoralising bad press can be and I know the damage undeserved criticism can do."

He said there was plenty for staff to be proud of including the safe transfer of patients to Worcestershire Royal Hospital and work starting on the diagnostic and treatment centre at Kidderminster.

Wyre Forest MP Dr Richard Taylor, who was elected in protest at the downgrading of Kidderminster Hospital, said any criticism of the trust was not aimed at nurses and doctors who do an excellent job.

He said: "Doctors and nurses are working under the most incredibly difficult conditions and I find patients are very appreciative of their efforts.

"The complaints I get are directed at the system, rather than staff. It is the staff who are bending over backwards to make it work."

As for scoring political points Dr Taylor accepted he was regarded in some quarters as a "political animal" but said his aim was not to score points but to secure the best services for patients.