AN MP has backed a pharmacy that is calling for more Government support.

Jake Berry, who represents Rossendale and Darwen, visited Strachan's Chemist in Market Street, earlier this month to show his approval of the company's fight for more protection.

The Government is proposing to reduce the amount of money it gives to pharmacies from October at a time when public health authorities are encouraging people to stay away from hospitals and self-medicate, where appropriate.

The feeling among firms such as Strachan's is that the threat of pharmacies closing is increasing at a time when they are needed most.

A petition, signed by two million people was delivered by the National Pharmacy Association (NPA) to Downing Street and was backed by Strachan's.

It reads: "We believe that local pharmacies are a vital frontline health service and part of the fabric of communities across England.

"Under new Government proposals, many pharmacies could be forced to close, depriving people of accessible medicines advice and other valuable support from trusted professionals.

"It would also put more pressure on GPs and hospital services.

"In the interests of patient care, we urge the Prime Minister and the Health Secretary to abandon plans that put pharmacy services at risk."

Mr Berry said: "It was lovely to see everyone at the pharmacy.

"This is a vital community resource that we must protect for everyone."

A Strachan’s spokesman said: "The funding cuts could result in us having to reduce the level of service we provide or even cut staff, which nobody wants.

"The chemist is the hub of the community and we need the Government to support us."

The pharmacy's owner Ian Strachan is chairman of the NPA.

Mr Strachan said: "We still don't know for sure what may happen, whether in October or further into the future.

"We now want to see fresh thinking and a willingness from Government to get around the table with community pharmacists and patients to map out a better plan.

"With a new Prime Minister and a new Pharmacy Minister, the opportunity is there to start again, from sound, patient-focused principles."

Visit supportyourlocalpharmacy.org for more information.