THE ‘worst, most challenging winter conditions we have had for 10 years’ have had an impact on NHS Warrington’s finances.

The health body is still within its budget for the end of the year and is set to save £500,000.

When it set its budget last April the plan was to save £1,402,000.

Chief executive Andrew Burgess told last Wednesday’s board meeting he was confident the trust would deliver the saving.

This winter placed unexpected pressures on NHS Warrington as the extended cold spells prompted more hospital activity.

There was also pressure from a country-wide increase in referrals to hospitals by GPs.