PHARMACY closures in one Somerset town have been reversed – with a third facility returning to boost patient choice.

MP Gideon Amos (Lib Dem, Taunton & Wellington) was on-hand to cut the ribbon at the new Allied Pharmacies premises in Wellington.

The firm has taken over the former Jhoots outlet behind the now-closed Luson Surgery, in Mantle Street, taking the number of places people can pick up prescriptions back to three.

A facility run by Boots at Wellington Medical Centre, in Mantle Street, closed two years ago, while the Jhoots pharmacy shut last September.

Cutting the ribbon on the new pharmacy today (March 9), Mr Amos said: “Wellington has been without adequate pharmacy provision since both Jhoots and Boots at the Medical Centre closed their doors.

READ MORE: Somerset GP surgery to close amid staff recruitment and retention issues

“I was delighted to be asked conduct the opening of this much needed pharmacy following meetings with several companies and working with NHS Somerset on the issue over the past year.

“I pay tribute to the volunteer campaigners and the town council who, like me, have added their pressure to get more facilities for the area.”

A spokesperson for Allied Pharmacies added: “We are proud to officially open the Wellington pharmacy and re-establish this vital healthcare service for the local community.

“We are grateful for the support shown by local representatives and the community, and we are delighted to welcome everyone back through our doors.

“Our team is committed to delivering excellent pharmaceutical care and ensuring residents have convenient access to prescriptions, healthcare services, and professional advice.”

There was more good news for Wellington last week when an application for a fourth pharmacy – at Westpark 26, Chelston – was approved.

READ MORE: Health & Wellbeing news from your Somerset Leveller