THE third pharmacy in Wellington officially opened on Monday (March 9).

Allied Pharmacies has taken over the former Jhoots premises behind the now-closed Luson Surgery in Mantle Street.

MP for Taunton and Wellington Gideon Amos (Lib Dem) joined the campaign for improved pharmacy provision in the town after it was reduced to only two outlets last year.

The facility run by Boots at Wellington Medical Centre in Mantle Street closed two years ago, while the Jhoots pharmacy shut last September causing lengthy queues for patients.

Wellington’s MP was pleased to be able to officially opened the latest pharmacy.

Mr Amos said: “Wellington has been without adequate pharmacy provision since both Jhoots and Boots at the Medical Centre closed their doors.

“I was delighted to be asked to conduct the opening of this much needed pharmacy following meetings with several companies and working with NHS Somerset on the issue over the past year.

“I pay tribute to the volunteer campaigners and the town council who, like me, have added their pressure to get more facilities for the area.”

A spokesperson for Allied Pharmacies added: “We are proud to officially open the Wellington pharmacy and re-establish this vital healthcare service for the local community.

“We are grateful for the support shown by local representatives and the community, and we are delighted to welcome everyone back through our doors.

“Our team is committed to delivering excellent pharmaceutical care.”

There was more good news for Wellington last week when NHS Somerset confirmed it has also approved a fourth community pharmacy, planned to open on the Westpark 26 business park, in Chelston.

However, the approval for the family-run firm Imperial Pharmacy Ltd is on hold until March 27 in case any appeal is lodged, failing which the company will then have 12 months in which to open.