A strained surgery has backed an MP’s call for improved investment in healthcare, but insists a new practice is not the answer.

Witham MP Priti Patel launched her ‘Putting Witham’s Patients First’ campaign at the start of the month, amid concerns some of the town’s GPs are catering for more than 2,400 residents - well above the national average of about 1,500.

Ms Patel, who also raised the matter in Parliament, is calling on local NHS trusts to recognise the growing need for more GPs and act.

Her stance comes as the Maltings Lane development continues to grow and with hundreds of other houses also expected to be built between now and 2026.

John Croager, practice manager at Witham Health Centre, in Mayland Road, agreed more investment was needed.