Vandals target Clacton surgery

Windows were smashed at the building in Nayland Drive, Clacton, which was saved from closure two years ago.

The latest attack happened over the weekend and staff were called out yesterday afternoon.

Head receptionist Lin Edwards told of the catalogue of vandalism.

She said: "Last Monday a shopping trolley was smashed into the front door of the surgery and then the next day a large front window and a side window were smashed in. Then again on Thursday another window was broken.

"It is sad because this is a community facility which people have fought hard to get."

She said staff were keeping an eye on the building but appealed for residents to keep a look-out.

Thelma Parsons, secretary at the practice, said it was very dispiriting.

She added: "It now looks like a bomb site and a total mess. It's depressing for staff and the patients who have to go there."

The converted bungalow is on the corner of Nayland Drive and Hadleigh Road in the middle of a residential area.

The surgery is operated part-time and is open each day from noon to 2pm.

It was set to close around four years ago but was kept open after an 18-month campaign by residents demanding a facility in their area.

They signed a 2,000-strong petition and after negotiations between Tendring Council and the Family Health Services Authority Dr Salah Garas - who has his main surgery in Jaywick - took it over.

Tendring Council owns the building and spent around £10,000 on improving the facility for patients.

A council spokesman said that the cost of the damage was likely to be around £500.

"We are appalled that any property should suffer such wanton vandalism - especially one which is a community asset," he added.

Insp Pat Byford of Clacton police said officers were investigating the vandalism and have already spoken to one youth in connection with the damage.

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