First meeting over fluoride fight

Critics say fluoride has been linked to health problems

A public meeting over plans to add fluoride to tap water in Southampton and west Hampshire has taken place.

Residents visited Bitterne Parish Hall on Thursday to give their views and study the plans, which will affect 200,000 people.

Health bosses say more than 40% of children in the area are suffering from tooth decay and believe the move would reduce the problem.

But campaigners claim fluoride has negative effects on the body.

Further public meetings will be held over the next few months across Southampton.

The city's primary care trust wants the level of fluoride increased to one part per million.

The 14-week public consultation, which ends in December, is being independently-run by the South Central Strategic Health Authority.