Cathedral in clinic link-up

A NEW medical practice within the grounds of one of Edinburgh's most famous landmarks will help a city cathedral involve itself more in the community, officials have said.

NHS Lothian showed plans for the unit within St Mary's Cathedral in the city's West End last week for locals to see exactly what was proposed.

It is expected planning for the much-needed facility - replacing the current West End Medical Practice - will take around a year, though both parties are keen to make good progress on the scheme.

The Cathedral's provost, the Very Reverend Dr Graham Forbes, said: "St Mary's is delighted to be taking part in this venture with NHS Lothian and the new medical centre will reinforce the cathedral's ongoing vision of an even wider role in the community."