A WELL-known doctor has hung up his white coat for good and bid a fond farewell to his patients.

Dr Francis Patiniott MBE, retired from work at Birchwood Medical Centre on May 26 after 30 years' service to patients in the area.

To mark the occasion, an open afternoon and evening was held the day before his departure.

A spokesman for the centre said: "Dr Patiniott would like to extend his heartfelt thanks for all the good wishes, cards and gifts he received."