CONCERNS over the future of blood testing at Skipton Hospital are unfounded, says the area's health and care partnership.

People familiar with the hospital's blood testing centre have been contacting the Craven Herald with concerns that it was to close, but the health and care partnership says there are no plans to make any changes to the service.

One Craven Herald reader, who wished not to be named, said: "I have heard that the blood testing centre at Skipton hospital is being considered for permanent closure.

"This would be disastrous for the people of Skipton and surrounding areas who would have to travel to Airedale Hospital instead. Especially for the elderly and disabled."

But, Helen Farmer, programme director, Access to Care, Bradford District and Craven Health and Care Partnership told the Craven Herald: “There is no change our current service and we have no plans to close blood testing at Skipton Hospital.

"Local GP practices continue to provide blood tests where clinically needed, you will be advised by your local GP practice how to access a test should you need one.”