Patients have been told that they can continue having their blood tested at a Powys border doctor's surgery following talks with the NHS.

Phlebotomy services at Bishop's Castle Medical Practice had been suspended since June 25 "due to the chronic underfunding of primary care".

Patients needing blood tests in the Bishop's Castle area were instead forced to go to other locations in the county, with the closest option a potential 90-minute round trip to Shrewsbury.

However, in a statement on August 13, Bishop's Castle Medical Practice said staff were able to offer blood tests "immediately" following "successful" talks with NHS Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin.

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"We would like to thank all of our patients for their understanding throughout this process," the practice said.

"We understand that this has been difficult and frustrating time, and we really appreciate the support we have been given.

"We would also like to thank NHS Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin for working with us to find a solution that means we can provide this vital service from our practice."

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An online petition to save the service in Bishop's Castle gained more than 1,000 signatures.

Patients shared their views following the medical practice's announcement. One said: "Thank goodness for that. It has been a nightmare going to Shrewsbury". Another said: "Well done all at the practice this is really good news and will remove so much stress from so many patients".

NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin has been approached for a comment.