PATIENTS have been left ‘totally in the dark’ after the sudden closure of a doctor’s surgery.

Abbey Surgery in Accrington closed suddenly yesterday (Friday), leaving patients uncertain as to what steps to take.

East Lancashire Clinical Commissioning Group bosses said the the Abbey Street surgery has closed with immediate effect due to ‘unforeseen circumstances’. 

It is unknown why the Abbey Street surgery has closed and the CCG were unable to confirm this when asked by the Lancashire Telegraph.

Confusion had even led rumours of the announcement being a hoax but CCG bosses confirmed this was not the case. 

Patient Ali Holmes said: “Can’t believe there is no one on site telling people what’s going on, there are a lot of elderly and vulnerable people totally in the dark about it closing.”

Hyndburn's MP Graham Jones said: "This is concerning and the CCG need to notify all the patients around the circumstances of this closure."

East Lancashire CCG chiefs confirmed the closure on Facebook late on Thursday night.

They said the situation was ‘out of our control’ after they were informed of the situation late on Thursday afternoon.

Sharon Martin, from East Lancashire CCG said: “The surgery closed due to unforeseen circumstances.

“Our priority is to ensure patients have a continuation of care and are still able to access high quality GP services but we understand this could be a worrying time.

“If you require any further information please contact customer care on 01772 214200.”

The CCG said it had attempted to contacted every patient who had an appointment on Friday and it said it has made other arrangements for them.

They said they would also be contacting all patients who have appointments on Monday. 

East Lancashire CCG added: “The CCG can confirm that this is not a hoax and unfortunately Abbey Surgery in Accrington has closed.

“This is out of our control and the CCG were informed late yesterday afternoon (Thursday) of the situation.

“Today (Friday) we will be contacting all patients who have appointments on Monday.

“We would like to reassure patients that they all still have access to GP services.

“If you need an appointment with a GP or nurse please ring 01254 770480.

“The CCG will keep members of the public informed with any updates.”

Patients have already ordered a repeat prescription and should collect them from the GP practice in Accrington Victoria Hospital.

People wishing to order a repeat prescription should ring 01254 770480 on Monday, April 23.”

Anyone likely to run out of their medication before Monday should call 111.”