THE chief executive of NHS West Essex was given a blistering rebuke by patients angry over the closure of their local GP's surgery at a heated public meeting tonight (Thursday June 17).

The patients of the Sun Street Surgery in Waltham Abbey said they were furious that they weren't even given a say in its closure, which was announced after their popular GP, Dr Lakha, announced his retirement from ill health.

Aiden Thomas opened the meeting at the Marriott Hotel in Waltham Abbey by stating he was only there to explain the PCT's decision to close the Sun Street Surgery without consultation, and that the decision would not be reversed.

He said: "I know that there are some strong feelings in this room about the practice, we've had a lot of letters and a petition.

"we as a PCT will consult with the public where we can. The one thing the PCT cannot offer you is the same practice in ther same building."

He went on to blame a lack of up to date facilities, and a lack of new surgery space in Waltham Abbey as the reasons behind the decision.

Emotions were running high amongst the 100 attendees however, and it soon descended into chaos, with people standing and leaving telling Mr Thomas he was wasting their time, heckling him and accusing him of putting money before people.

Also present at the meeting were the two locum GP's who had offered to take over Dr Lakha's Practice, and who many at the meeting openly championed.

Dr Steve Kite said he was "suprised" at how quickly the decision had been made- in two weeks and that for the two and a half years he had previously worked at the Key Health Centre he thought there would be enouigh space for a new practice.

He added to hte crowds delight: "But I don't think we'll be able to take the job anyway, a new position has come up - the chief executive's food taster."

One contributor stood up and told Mr Thomas: "The feeling of disgust in this room is very high, the choice has already been made but we will fight this."

It is also understood that the Essex Local Medical Committee are to hold a special investagatory meeting into the PCT's handling of the closure tomorrow.