A MINOR Injuries Unit (MIU) in Dorset will be closed this weekend due to Covid related staff absences.

The MIU at Swanage Hospital will be closed on Saturday, July 16 and Sunday, July 17.

Dorset HealthCare said anyone in the Swanage area with any injuries or ailments requiring urgent attention is urged to visit https://111.nhs.uk/ or call NHS 111 for advice.

A spokesperson said: “Once assessed, they will be directed to the appropriate care and support – which may be a pharmacy or local GP service.

“If face-to-face treatment is required, they will be given an appointment at one of our other local MIUs, such as the Victoria Hospital in Wimborne."

The spokesperson added: “We have increased our 111 staffing capacity to ensure people’s calls are answered quickly and their issues dealt with as promptly as possible.

"We thank the public for their understanding at this time.”