RESIDENTS from across Thurrock have expressed concern about changes to the blood testing service at Orsett Hospital - and a reduction in the means of getting there.

A social media post about the difficulties of getting to the hospital by public transport in the wake of bus service cuts - and the lengthy delays at the hospital where patients have to wait outside because of restrictions due to coronavirus are matters of worry to a large number of residents.

One man described his experience of using the service, saying: "I went for blood test at Orsett Hospital yesterday (Friday, 27 November).

"Only one bus an hour goes there from Grays so I had no option but to get there a bit early for my pre-booked appointment.

"When I arrived was told to wait outside in the cold until the time of my appointment was due.

"When I did get inside I had to wait a further 30 minutes for my blood test to be done.

"Due to the delay I just missed the bus back to Grays so had to wait almost an hour out in the cold for the next bus to take me home.

"Its about time local councilors got together and did something about the appalling bus service to and from the hospital as one bus an hour is just not acceptable, especially in winter time waiting in cold or raining conditions when you are not feeling very well., and then get back home freezing cold."

His story touched a nerve with many residents who expressed similar concerns - and a growing fear that the testing service is being deliberately run down as a prelude to the closure of the hospital.

Thurrock Nub News has asked the health service, Thurrock Clinical Commissioning Group and Thurrock council for comments and will report back shortly.

We would welcome any comments and opinions from local people who have used the service recently. Please email the editor at [email protected].