AN internationally renowned consultant will be using his expertise to help people with spinal injuries at a North-East rehabilitation centre.

Munawar Mecci from James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough will spend a day each week at The Gateway, a multi-million pound facility which opened in the town in January.

Run by health-care specialists, Keiro, it teaches practical skills and offers respite care and transitional housing options for patients leaving James Cook University Hospital with complex spinal cord injuries.

Paula Hewitson, head of operations at Keiro, said: “The spinal injuries unit at James Cook is considered one of the very best in the country, providing all complex care under one roof.

"There is a seamless transition from acute care to rehabilitation overseen by Mr Mecci and his team. The advantage for Keiro is the close proximity to James Cook – we can extend on-going support and respite to clients following their specialist rehabilitation in hospital.

Mr Mecci added: “At The Gateway, I am not only able to work with new clients but also continue my work with existing clients from James Cook. The sophisticated award winning amenities offered are ideal to continue the care for people with long-term complex needs and I am delighted to be able to offer my services and collaborate with an extended team.”