Customers at a Swindon pharmacy have been left queueing to get in and unable to collect their prescriptions.

Signs at the front of the Moredon branch of Lloyds Pharmacy indicate that it is changing hands but that this transfer should not affect the service provided to people on a day-to-day basis.

However, concerned customers have contacted the Adver because the quality of service has indeed changed.

People are reportedly being told that they cannot get their regular prescriptions and are having to queue up in lines that lead out of the main entrance.

Opening hours suddenly changed last week, closing at 4pm on some days and shutting entirely on Saturday apart from emergencies and 111 referrals.

The company has apologised for the disruption, blaming a combination of high demand and low staff availability.

A Lloyds Pharmacy spokesperson said: “Moredon experienced some temporary disruption to its services, which has meant that, at times, the branch experienced longer than usual prescription waiting times and queues, as well as temporary reduced hours or door service.

"This has been caused by staff shortages and sickness absence during a time when there is an increasing demand for community health services.

“Currently there is significant pressure on community pharmacies across the UK due to sector-wide workforce issues which are not unique to LloydsPharmacy.

"Nevertheless, we would like to sincerely apologise to our customers and patients for any inconvenience this may have caused and are grateful for their patience during this time.

“LloydsPharmacy takes its responsibility towards the local community seriously.

"Despite these significant challenges, our team has been working hard to ensure our patients can still access the care they need. 

"Our field management team has also successfully resolved some of these recent issues. 

"As a result, we expect that as of this week, the branch will resume normal service.”

In regards to the long-term future of the pharmacy, Lloyds confirmed that it is being sold to a new owner.

The spokesperson added: "LloydsPharmacy is reviewing its community pharmacy estate and selectively selling some branches.

“The majority of buyers of these selected branches are independent pharmacy owners and local businesspeople who have demonstrated their commitment to our branch teams and patients, and are well-placed to meet the ongoing health needs of the local community.

“The team is pleased that its colleagues from these stores will be joining successful, local businesses and that for patients there will be no change in the way they use their pharmacy.”