People concerned over the future of NHS services on Portland had their say in a public meeting with one of Dorset’s health chiefs.

Residents attended a meeting with Ron Shields, chief executive of Dorset HealthCare, in which he urged people to put forward their views on what health services are needed on the isle.

Many highlighted concerns over the future of Portland Hospital following the loss of its community beds, and the needs of residents in more deprived areas of the island.

Mr Shields began the meeting at St John’s Hall by saying: “This is an opportunity for you to make clear what your views are about healthcare on Portland.

“The purpose is not to come up with all the answers but to set in train a series of discussions. At the end I hope we’re in a situation where the way the NHS works on Portland is what you want.”

Mr Shields said the process could take around six to twelve months.

He further insisted Portland Hospital will not be sold following recent fears, saying: “That, I am absolutely categorical about.”

Dilys Ralston, who lives in Wyke Regis but uses healthcare services on Portland, said: “How will services change with the increased number of people living on the island? We are an ageing population.

Underhill is still an area of great need.”

This was echoed by Rev. Tim Gomm, Rector of Portland, who said the hospital is an idea location to potentially be transformed into a community hub, as it is more easily accessed by residents in Underhill than those from the more affluent area of Southwell.

An idea for community funded healthcare services managed by local people was also mulled over in the meeting, as well as calls for a clearer explanation of how NHS money is spent in the county.

Andy Matthews, chairman of Portland Community Partnership, said: “We can’t turn our back on growth, we have an opportunity here to invest in our community.

“We must make sure the island is looking to the future.”

There’s still a chance to have your say at public meetings with Mr Shields at the C2000 centre in Easton at 7.30pm tonight (23) and at St Andrew’s Hall in Southwell at 2pm tomorrow (24).