SOUTH Dorset MP Jim Knight today raised concerns over plans to cut the overnight opening hours at Swanage Hospital's minor injuries unit.

His comments came after Dorset Primary Care Trust (PCT) put forward a proposal to close the unit between 10pm and 8am following a public board meeting.

In response Dorset Primary Care Trust has made assurances that any proposed changes to opening hours will be subject to public consultation and will be in the best interests of the community.

Mr Knight claimed his priority was to make sure there was first-rate emergency care available for people in the area around the clock.

He said: "I have expressed my concerns to the PCT chairman, Anne Thomas.

"People in Swanage are rightfully proud of their hospital, partly due to the community's heroic fundraising efforts in recent years.

"My main concern is to ensure there is first-rate emergency care available for people in Swanage.

"I will be seeking reassurances on behalf of my constituents that this will continue to be available."

Mr Knight added that he would also contact Peter Mankin, chief executive of Dorset PCT.

The PCT claim that, with an average of just 21 patients using the unit overnight every month, maintaining the service is becoming unfeasible and funds could be put to better use.

The trust also stresses no changes will be implemented until satisfactory alternatives are in place.

Interim director of community health services Ian Brennan said: "Having looked closely at the number of patients using the unit overnight, Dorset PCT believes the cost of staffing this service could be better used to provide a range of community nursing services to deliver more care closer to where people live.

"However, I would like to reassure people that this proposal will not be implemented until the PCT has widely consulted with residents and key partners."

The PCT added that there will be extensive public consultation over the summer.