Maternity unit to shut overnight due to staff shortages

It's been announced that the maternity unit will be shut overnight at Weston General Hospital due to a shortage of staff.

The temporary closure of the maternity ward from 10pm means pregnant women will only be admitted if they phone in advance - and staff are brought in to treat them.

For the first time the birthing unit at Weston General Hospital won't be manned 24/7.

Staff shortages have forced the NHS Trust to rethink the way it uses its midwives.

Campaigners fighting the overnight closure of Weston General's A&E Department. Credit: ITV West Country

The move follows the closure of the hospital's A&E department overnight - which met public opposition. Dangerously low staff levels meant it couldn't run safely 24 hours a day.

Now campaigners say this is another blow to the town.