A PATIENT has demanded a full explanation after the surgery he has attended for 50 years was closed down.

The James Street practice had operated for 60 years, but its 1,800 patients were transferred to Little Harwood Health Centre when it closed on Sunday.

The decision was made in early December and patients were notified by letter soon after Christmas, but discussions about its future had begun four months ago when resident GP Dr Maiti left after 20 years.

His place was taken by a locum, Dr Dash, but all patients will now be treated, along with Little Harwood's existing 12,000 patients, by the health centre's six doctors.

Steve Catterall, 54, of Parsonage Road, Wilpshire, had been registered with the practice since he was a young child and wants to see a report accounting for its closure.

He said: "They have said there are good reasons such as lack of wheelchair access and nowhere for a nurse, but with a little bit of money it could be adapted.

"They are moving 1,800 people for the sake of some bits of alterations.

"My parents were also at the practice and they and other patients will now have to get a taxi or two buses to go to Little Harwood.

"I have also spoken to patients at Little Harwood and they have said they are not happy. But what I am more annoyed about is that the options have not been looked at.

"I have contacted a solicitor to send a letter asking for a report on this as I would expect something in writing."

But David Brunskill, director of corporate development for Blackburn with Darwen Primary Care Trust, said the correct procedures have been followed in relation to the practice and that the decision was not taken lightly.

He said: "Mr Catterall feels it is about putting up a few partitions, whereas nothing is that simple.

"The building has lots of limitations and there is not enough space to do what we want to do.

"It is essential that we provide fit-for-purpose premises wherever possible rather than relying on the use of converted houses as we have sometimes done in the past.

"Mr Catterall wants to see a report but there is not one report which says all this."

Patients involved in the closure have been sent letters outlining the move and Little Harwood Practice booklets will be available soon. Those who would like a copy should call 01254 267000.