A Swindon pharmacy has been taken over by a new owner after being put up for sale. 

The Lloyds Pharmacy in Moredon Medical Centre went on the market in July.

Now national firm Jhoots Pharmacy has picked up ownership of the health setting as part of the acquisition of 36 community pharmacies across the UK. 

The deal, which is expected to protect 212 jobs and create up to 130 new roles, was made possible thanks to funding from banking firm HSBC.

A £17.4m funding package has been given to Jhoots by the bank for the takeover of the former Lloyds sites. 

Jhoots, which owns and operates 63 sites across the UK, says it will use the funding to undertake refits and enhance pharmacy offerings, ensuring local communities have access to urgent care services – such as referrals from doctors, sexual health consultations and travel clinics – to alleviate GP waiting times.

The business will be looking to save jobs and is actively recruiting for up to 130 roles, including pharmacists and qualified dispensers, as well as increasing opportunities for apprentices and trainees.

Sarbjit Jhooty, business development director at Jhoots Pharmacy, said: “We were looking for the right banking partner to support our business and our vision to grow into a larger pharmacy chain.

"With HSBC UK’s backing, we’re committed to providing a service that puts the community first, with a strong face-to-face approach that will offer enhanced support to local areas.”

Partho Bose, relationship director at HSBC UK, added: “It’s extremely important to increase the access to care in the UK.

"With our extensive understanding and experience within the health sector, we’re providing Jhoots Pharmacy with financial foundations to realise the business’s ambitious growth plans as well as protecting and creating jobs.”

At the time that the sale of the pharmacy was confirmed, customers were left having to deal with long queues to get their prescriptions, which Lloyds apologised for stating that staff shortages were responsible.

A spokesperson for Lloyds Pharmacy added: "The company 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.”