A new pharmacy is opening in Hampton North tomorrow (Saturday, 12 April) despite many local chemists closing across the country.

Almost 800 pharmacies have closed in England over the past four years, with the greatest impact often felt in areas with older populations or limited public transport.

The Hampton Pharmacy is located at 29 Tangley Park Road and residents can visit and register for the pharmacy from tomorrow.

The opening of this new pharmacy is in part due to the dedicated efforts of local ward councillors – Cllr Carey Bishop, Cllr Elizabeth Gant, and Cllr Jeremy Davis – who have actively campaigned to address gaps in healthcare services for the residents of Hampton North, says Cllr Piers Allen.

In addition to dispensing medication, the pharmacy will administer flu vaccinations as well as offering advice on health products and weight management.

It will also work closely with GP practices, hospital teams and the wider community to ease pressure on services and support local health and wellbeing.

Cllr Piers Allen, Chair of the Adult Social Services Health and Housing Committee, said: "At a time when many areas are losing their local pharmacies, we are very pleased to see a new one opening in Hampton North.

"Pharmacies are a lifeline for many people, especially those managing long term conditions or needing accessible advice and treatment close to home.

"This is a fantastic development that will support the local community, improve access to care and help relieve pressure on GPs. In many ways, this new opening truly bucks the national trend."