A manager of a Weymouth GP surgery has addressed rumours that the practice is closing down.

Reportedly, it has been circulating online that Wyke Regis Health Centre, on Portland Road, Weymouth, is to close.

The surgery has moved to reassure patients they are definitely not closing, after patients started coming in with concerns about the health centre's future.

The rumours were causing 'anxiety amongst patients and staff', a statement from the practice said. 

Practice manager Ann Klust said: “In recent days we have had patients approaching us asking if the surgery is closing as they have seen information circulating suggesting this is the case.

“We can categorically say this is not the case and would ask anyone fuelling this speculation by sharing posts to stop as it is causing some anxiety amongst patients and staff at a time when we are already under huge pressure.

“The partners here at Wyke Surgery would like to thank all registered patients for their continued support and understanding during this time when we have been operating with a reduced GP workforce.

"All staff continue to remain committed to providing a service at the surgery and to being able to recruit more staff in the future.

“We would ask anyone who has any questions about the practice to approach a member of the team in the first instance.”

Dorset Council councillor Kate Wheller, who represents Wyke Regis, said she wasn't surprised that rumours of the closure began on the internet.

She said: "Who knows where rumours start, but only one person needs to make a comment for another to misunderstand and before you know it, it is all over the internet.

"I am registered there myself and I am very satisfied with the care I receive from them. I know they have staffing problems at the moment but I have been assured they are dealing with that.

"The health system has been grossly underfunded for years and in that sort of atmosphere, rumours will run rife."