A LACK of need has been cited as the reason a community hospital is closing its doors overnight.

Local concern was raised following news that the Ellen Badger Hospital, in Shipston, was reducing its opening hours to the minor injuries unit, meaning people would have to travel further afield for treatment in the night.

Ricahrd Cheney, Liberal Democrat councillor for Stratford District Council said he had originally believed the hospital was closing altogether, and although he was relieved this was not the case, he is nevertheless concerned on the reduction of care in the district without asking the puclic.

He told the Journal: 'I am concerned to learn that the South Warwickshire Foundation Trust has decided to make this decision to remove overnight cover without any consultation with the local medical service or the local community.

"This Minor Injuries Unit is a valuable resource for the local community. The overnight provision has been very useful for those patients who have needed it. Alternative facilities are at least 12 miles away and not easily reached if the injured person does not have access to a vehicle. I am writing to the South Warwickshire Foundation Trust to express my concern about this decision."

A spokesman for the Soth Warwickshire Foundation Trust said: "The hours are being reduced due to a combination of factors; the very low number of patients presenting to the Minor Injuries at Ellen Badger outside of the hours 8am to 8pm and the limited staff available to maintain a safe service. Currently there is a maximum of one patient a week using this service outside of the new hours. The nursing staff are also responsible for patients on the ward and, therefore, it is only feasible within our resources to offer this service 8am to 8pm.

"The Trust did explore alternative options to keep the service as it was, however these were not practical and the decision was made to reduce the hours to ensure we are providing a safe service."

The Ellen Badger is a small community NHS hospital. Its facilities include an 18-bedded ward with on site physiotherapy, occupattional therapy, x-ray, out-patient clinics and a minor injury unit. There is a day unit attached to the hospital together with community nursing services.