The hospital director of the Practice Plus Group Hospital Shepton Mallet, which was formerly known as the NHS Treatment Centre, has confirmed the building is operating during this lockdown.

Andrew Oakerbee said: "Despite the introduction of a second national lockdown, thanks to our dedicated teams and robust infection procedures we are continuing to undertake elective, routine and planned, treatment for patients with an appointment in a Covid-19 secure environment, albeit in a reduced capacity in line with the rest of the public and private sector under the circumstances.

"As a consequence it is safe to come here and we ask all patients to attend clinics and surgical lists as requested unless otherwise advised - the Prime Minister was clear on this in his recent national briefing.

"We continue to work in a Covid-19 secure pathway - as per Government guidance, patients are asked not come to this hospital if they, or anyone in their family or bubble, have been in contact with someone with coronavirus, are displaying the symptoms of Covid-19, have tested positive or have been contacted by the NHS Track and Trace Service. Please let us know if this is the case at the earliest opportunity prior to planned attendance.

"Unfortunately Covid-19 rules mean that, like the rest of the NHS and healthcare sector, we are unable to allow visitors to this hospital.

"As well as protecting other patients by following these simple rules, which apply to NHS, self-pay and private medical insured patients, you are helping to keep our colleagues safe so they can continue to serve the community throughout the winter and any Covid-19 second wave."