CAMPAIGNERS in Tetbury who are pressing their local GP practice to ensure that a female doctor is not ‘forced out’ met with representatives from Romney House Surgery.

A town meeting on November 16 heard that senior doctor Katharina Nehrig was resigning over alleged bullying by another GP.

A petition led by Alison Hesketh has gained more than 700 signatures. The petition raises concerns that Dr Nehrig’s departure would cause a decline in the level of service at Romney House.

Yesterday afternoon (Tuesday 6), campaigners met with practice manager Kesh Makhecha and Dr Nehrig.

Petition leader Alison said: “We were very sad to see her leave. I thanked Dr Nehrig, I said I was hoping she would stay but if she did go, that she would come back and get another practice going.

“It’s hard as a patient hearing about these things and not being able to do anything about it."

A statement handed out to campaigners by Mr Makhecha, signed by Mr Makhecha and Dr Nehrig, wrote: “The appreciation for contributions made by Dr Nehrig over almost ten years to the care of patients at the practice is very welcome, thank you.

“The resolution of matters inferred by the petition, both past and present, is very much an internal matter for the practice and will continue to remain so.

“Our ability to attract new GP partners to Tetbury is dependent on a number of factors and we know that recent adverse publicity has not aided the recruitment process and has presented a real challenge to the whole practice team.

“Accordingly, it would be much appreciated if the town were to actively support the surgery in its efforts to promote Tetbury as a great community in which to live so we can continue to meet the healthcare needs of Tetbury and surrounding areas by attracting new GPs.”

Kevin Painter, deputy mayor of Tetbury who attended the meeting, said: “I was very proud to present the petition to Dr Nehrig who was so touched by the amount of support that has been given her.

“My concerns are now for the future in medical facilities for the town. There are obviously problems or concerns so I think a complete independent overview is needed.

“Faith is as much a part of good medicine and surgery, and unfortunately at the moment the people of our town need their faith restored.”

Alison is now asking the practice to rescind any clause in Dr Nehrig’s contract preventing the doctor working in Tetbury or the surrounding area after her resignation.

She said that the removal of any such clause would enable Dr Nehrig to start another practice in Tetbury if she wished.