Health bodies across the region are being praised for getting back into a strong financial position.

Both Essex Rivers Healthcare NHS Trust and North Essex Primary Care Trust (PCT) have recorded surpluses after a period of massive deficits.

The PCT reported it was £896,000 in credit while Essex Rivers recorded a surplus of £8.6 million.

Figures from the Department of Health show in 2006/7 the NHS across the country delivered a surplus of more than £500 million which could be invested in new drugs and services.