PATIENTS have been criticised after it was revealed at least 30 doctors’ appointments are being missed every week at a surgery in Frinton.

Caradoc Surgery, in Station Approach, was left at the brink of collapse after its only permanent GP quit due to ill health, after which patients complained they were unable to book appointments.

But in November last year, health providers Anglian Community Enterprise, GP Primary Choice and Supporting Health joined forces to take over the struggling surgery.

Concerns have now been raised about the number of patients missing appointments.

Frinton Patient Participation Group chairman Neil Churcher said: “This is something like five hours of doctors’ time a week – it is a complete waste.

“It is important the surgery gets told when people can’t make appointments. It means someone who reallywants one can get one.”

Read the full story in the Frinton & Walton Gazette, out now.