THE Dudley Group of hospitals is being prosecuted after two incidents where patients died after they were allegedly exposed to "significant risk of avoidable harm" - the Care Quality Commission has announced.

The regulator said it was bringing the criminal prosecution against the Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust over two alleged breaches of regulations 12 and 22 of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014, which relate to ensuring patients receive safe care and treatment.

The CQC has brought the prosecution following two specific incidents in which patients died after being allegedly exposed to significant risk of avoidable harm at Russells Hall Hospital.

The first hearing will take place at Dudley Magistrates' Court at 10am tomorrow (Wednesday).