Patients in dark over mystery closure

A Preston practice that was forced to close shortly before Christmas due to staff-illness still shows no signs of re-opening.

Dozens of patients have been unable to collect prescriptions from the Preston branch of Neil MacArthur Opticians, while many have missed eye appointments, according to a report in the Lancashire Evening Post.

Attempts by Optician to contact the branch have proved unsuccesful with all calls going to an answering machine.

The company's office above the Preston practice would not discuss the issue and Neil MacArthur's head office in Leeds was unavailable for comment as Optician went to press (Wednesday).

Optician understands from staff at other branches of Neil MacArthur that the Preston practice had been forced into temporary closure due to illness and a member of staff leaving.