We are delighted to announce that we have recruited a new practice nurse, Sarah, to join Pauline and Marion. She will be starting work on 4th January.

 For certain conditions/ailments, taking time off work or out of a busy day is not always an efficient way of accessing our services. Often a phone conversation with the GP or nurse is a better option. On any given day, each GP and nurse has time at the end of their surgery to call patients. If you wish to use this service, please call reception and request a telephone appointment.

 The 'Flu Day' on 15th October was our busiest ever, with nearly 600 patients attending for vaccination. We still have vaccine in stock for those in the eligible groups (over 65's, asthma, COPD, heart disease, diabetes, pregnant, immune suppressed and chronic kidney disease). Please contact reception to make an appointment.

 Unfortunately, the funding for the Tuesday Evening Family Planning Clinic has been withdrawn by the local Primary Care Trust. As a result, we have had to take the difficult decision to close the clinic. The last one will be held on Tuesday 7th June 2011. We will continue to offer a full range of family planning during normal opening hours.

 The national press has been carrying many stories regarding problems with the supply of influenza vaccine. During this season's influenza vaccination campaign, which started in October, we have delivered over 1000 vaccinations to the at risk groups. In a 'normal' year, this number of vacccines is more than enough to cover these patients, but this year has been far from normal. We have attempted to secure vaccinations from other sources, including local pharmacies and even from European manufacturers. We understand that local pharmacies are now out of stock.