Patients at an at risk rural Moray medical practice are celebrating after it was confirmed it will remain open.
More than 600 people around Glenlivet were faced with the prospect of a 30-mile round trip to see their nearest doctor if the Drumin practice closed.
Fears had been raised about its future when it emerged the venue’s popular GP was due to retire after more than 30 years treating locals.
Moray MSP, Richard Lochhead, had expressed concern that the tiny community could be the latest casualty of rising vacancy rates in remote locations.
But NHS Grampian has now informed patients that doctors will take turns travelling from Grantown to ensure the surgery stays open.
Mr Lochhead was among the first to welcome the announcement that a solution had been found yesterday.
The SNP politician said: “The news that the future of the Glenlivet GP practice has been secured is a very positive outcome for the community.
“Many people there had conveyed their views very strongly that it was necessary to continue the service.
“Clearly, it can be challenging to attract rural GPs these days, and that is why these efforts from the NHS will be especially welcomed.
“This will save patients having to travel further afield than they should to see a doctor.”
Highlands and Islands MSP, Douglas Ross, said he had also been contacted by patients worried by the potential effect of the centre’s demise.
Last night, he said the people who had spoken out should be commended for ensuring that a new system of staffing it was devised.
The Conservative MSP added: “I am delighted that a solution has been found to keep this vital service open, which will be a great relief to many local people.
“I have been in discussion with many concerned constituents about this and have been in contact with NHS Grampian over the issue.”