Some 14,000 people in Basingstoke left without access to a GP after their medical centre closed suddenly are being told to call 111.

In an email from the chief executive of Hampshire Hospitals, seen by The Gazette, one concerned resident was directed to the NHS’s non-emergency helpline.

Alex Whitfield, of Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said she was “aware” of the issue and is in contact with North Hampshire Clinical Commissioning Group who are responsible for GP surgeries in Basingstoke.

It comes after The Gazette reported yesterday how Bermuda and Marlowe surgery in Popley was shut down after a planned takeover failed at last minute.

Sources told this newspaper it collapsed due to “contractual reasons”. After several hours, the CCG responded to The Gazette’s requests for comment and confirmed the news.

It is not yet clear why patients weren’t informed earlier or why there wasn’t a back-up plan in place.

Patient Mark Hill wrote to the chief executive of Hampshire Hospitals as well as the NHS, seeking “urgent advice”.

Ms Whitfield responded saying: “Hopefully there will be a more sustainable plan in place in the next few days which the CCG will be communicating to all 14,000 patients.”

The situation has been branded a “scandal” and an “outrage” by councillors and patients.

The email to Mr Hill in full reads: “We are aware and we have been in discussion with the CCG who are trying to resolve the situation. I think things will become clearer over the next few days.

“in the meantime, if you need help then please do call 111 who can direct you to the best place.

“111 are well aware and can ensure someone sorts out repeat prescriptions or even get a GP to see if you needed.

“They can even book an appointment in the emergency department at the hospital if they think you need to be seen with us.

“Hopefully there will be a more sustainable plan in place in the next few days which the CCG ill be communicating to all 14,000 patients.

“Thanks.”