The trust said a more stable service would be provided by May 2026 thanks to a successful recruitment campaign to fill staffing gaps.

Dr Gill Findley, executive chief nurse, said: ‘We are sorry for the inconvenience and confusion caused by the ongoing temporary closures and fully recognise the impact this has had on those who use the service. This decision is never taken lightly and is only to ensure that we can keep patients safe and continue to provide at least one urgent treatment facility in the area.

‘Our colleagues have been working extremely hard to maintain provision wherever possible, and we are grateful for their continued commitment during what has been a challenging period. We appreciate the community's patience and understanding as we work through these challenges.

‘We are working really hard to stabilise the staffing position.  We are actively recruiting to vacant posts and colleagues are due to join us in the coming months to strengthen the team. 

‘We will do everything we can to avoid further closures in the coming months, however,  it is likely there will be some disruption until new colleagues come into post.'