AN EMERGENCY hospital unit is to be closed for patients over the jubilee weekend due to staffing shortages.

Residents who sustain a minor injury will not be able to visit the unit at the Fryatt Hospital in Dovercourt between tomorrow and Sunday.

According to a statement published by Mayflower Medical Centre, the closure of the minor injuries unit is due to staff sickness.

The closure will also coincide with the four day bank weekend holiday which will celebrate the Queen’s 70-year reign.

A spokesman for the Mayflower Medical Centre said: “If you require medical attention for a minor injury during this time, it will be necessary to attend the Urgent Treatment Centre in Clacton or Colchester.”

Dr Angela Tillett is chief medical officer at East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust, which runs the minor injuries unit in Harwich.

She said: “Unfortunately, due to staffing issues there will be a limited clinical service in place at the minor injuries unit in Harwich from June 2-5.

“We would like to thank all our patients for their patience and support during this time.

“People with minor injuries can still drop in for help and advice and a virtual clinical triage service will be available.

“ However, patients who need to be seen in person will be offered a booked appointment at the urgent treatment centre at Clacton Hospital.

“If they don’t have access to transport, this will be provided for them, there and back, free of charge.

“The best way our communities can support the NHS over the jubilee weekend is to use services appropriately.

“If it’s not an emergency, please call NHS 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk first – or contact a local pharmacy for help with minor or routine problems.”