Two peninsula surgeries have appealed for qualified dispensers to help out during a staff shortage, due to the Covid-19 crisis, and extra opening hours, including this Easter weekend

Shotley and Holbrook surgeries will be open on alternating days from Good Friday, through to Easter Monday. (details below)

Both dispensaries are short staffed and have called for reinforcements from those with experience.

A spokeswoman for the two practices said: "We are having to work with a reduced number of staff at the moment, so if there are any qualified dispensers who are looking for work, please contact the practice and speak to Lorna Bocsi or Sheena Brown."

Contact Holbrook 328263, or Shotley 787435.

Shotley and Holbrook are working on temporary schedule with urgent appointments being telephone triaged and dispensaries needing

five working days between requesting medication and collection.

There are special time slots for those aged more than 70 years old. See our daily Breakfast Briefings for up to date opening and collection times.

Peninsula Good Neighbour Groups are able to help those who are unable to get anyone to collect on their behalf. Contact:

Shotley and Erwarton Good Neighbours - 07799873881

Holbrook Helpers - 07999583017

Stutton Network - 01473 327753

Tattingstone - 07895052086

Chelmondiston - 01473 780408

Harkstead - 01473 328326

Easter dispensary hours.

Friday 10th April 08:00-18:30 at Holbrook (pre-ordered repeat medications can be collected between 08:00-11:00 and 15:00-17:00 with over 70's only collection between 14:00-15:00)

Saturday 11th April 08:00-18:30 at Shotley (pre-ordered repeat medications can be collected between 08:00-11:00 and 15:00-17:00 with over 70's only collection between 14:00-15:00)

Sunday 12th April 08:00-18:30 at Holbrook (pre-ordered repeat medications can be collected between 08:00-11:00 and 15:00-17:00 with over 70's only collection between 14:00-15:00)

Monday 13th April 08:00-18:30 at Shotley (pre-ordered repeat medications can be collected between 08:00-11:00 and 15:00-17:00 with over 70's only collection between 14:00-15:00).