A TOP Hampshire GP has issued a stark warning that services are “stretched to breaking point” after a report revealed that surgeries are struggling to recruit doctors and nurses.

The report by the Wessex Local Medical Committee, which represents 2,500 GPs in Dorset, Hampshire, Wiltshire and the Isle of Wight, revealed that many surgeries across the region are struggling to recruit new people in key roles.

Dr Nigel Watson, chief executive of Wessex Local Medical Committees and New Forest GP, said: “This survey is very worrying, with GPs already leaving because of workload pressure.

“If no one replaces them the workload increases on those who remain, this will precipitate more early retirements and some areas could find themselves without a practice.

“Urgent action is needed to address the problems.”