MONTHS after it was cancelled, the blood service has finally resumed at Romsey Hospital.

After the room provided for University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust was taken away, talks between UHS and West Hampshire CCG have now seen a resumption in the phlebotomy service at the community hospital.

The service resumed on July 10.

The issue arose after the original clinical area at Romsey Hospital was moved, meaning providers UHS could no longer issue the service, as the alternative was assessed to be too small.

Heather Hauschild, chief officer of West Hampshire Clinical Commissioning Group said: "We are pleased that the walk-in clinics will again be available locally. The CCG remains committed to ensuring access to local services for patients wherever possible."

The CCG had been speaking to UHS and owners of the hospital, Southampton Health NHS Foundation Trust, and The Advertiser reported that talks had been progressing well.

The breakthrough came when a 'suitable clinic area' at the hospital was given to UHS to continue the service.

A spokesperson for UHS said: "We are pleased we have been provided with a suitable location to resume this service."

The initial stopping of the service had caused a backlash from residents.

Chair of the Friends of Romsey Hospital, Elaine Granger, had said the stoppage was 'a great shame'.

She said: "It is an important service for the community, and it is a great shame."

UHS had put on a GP practice in the area and access to additional testing clinics at Southampton General Hospital prior to the breakthrough.

Romsey and Southampton North MP Caroline Nokes also said she had been looking into what could be done with the providers and building owners.

Patients can now access blood tests via a pre-booked appointment or through the walk-in clinics.