A MAGAZINE threatened with legal action by Wyre Forest MP David Lock has apologised for an article on election rival Dr Richard Taylor.

Bewdley-based For You has stood by the piece but apologised for any distress caused to Mr Lock and his family.

It will also make a contribution to the MP's costs and interview him for a forthcoming issue.

Mr Lock, who claimed the article included libellous comments over the controversial Kidderminster Hospital issue, said: "I am very sad I had to resort to lawyers. I hope this is the last occasion when this will be necessary.

"Articles like this cause wholly unnecessary worry and anger amongst many elderly and vulnerable constituents.

"I see these worries and concerns day in, day out and doctors have repeatedly said these worries are groundless and medical arrangements are safe - indeed safer than before."

Co-director of magazine publisher Aardvark Associates, Simon Edwards, said: "We stand by our article but do apologise for any distress caused to Mr Lock and his family.

"We too regret it has come to this. If Mr Lock had come on in a reasonable manner in the first place we would have been more than happy to offer him a right of reply."