When you feel unwell and need to see a GP the last think you want is a nosey receptionist thinking they know everything and can diagnose you with a couple of questions. My last surgery had that problem so I moved. I have Fibromyalgia and sometimes my symptoms are wide ranging. It's not as straightforward as I have a back ache, so to be told 1 appointment per problem was simply ridiculous and impossible. The Lovely ladies at this surgery make so much difference. From my very first visit to pick up registration forms I was greeted by an Elf! (Complete with stripy leggings and elf ears and hat!- I kid you not!) She quickly explained it was Elf Day and for a good cause, sorted the paperwork I needed, explained the procedure to join the surgery, told me to get a print out of my medication and significant problems from my last GP and went through how appointments can be made. She even admitted they were probably no better able to give appointments than any other surgery, GPs are in demand, phone lines are busy and patients, well they have to be patient. But she reassured me that whatever was wrong they would always do their very best to book e in with a GP appropriately and that every patient was important. That promise has been kept. Even when the wait has been really frustrating (almost an hour and 45 mins in 2 calls on one occassion) the woman answering was quick to apologise for the delay and arranged for me to be called by a doctor a week later, even though she had said they were fully booked. People need to remember, this service is free for everyone, these staff are unlikely to do the job for a fat pay check, the doctors are doing their best. This truly is the best surgery I've been with and I'd recommend them to anyone.

I cannot understand some of these reviews of the team at the Village Medical Centre. The staff are all simply amazing and go above and beyond to ensure all patients are dealt with in a professional yet friendly, timely and appropriate manner. I've been with 4 different surgeries in my adult life and this is by a mile the very best. Sarah, Becky, Andrea, Caroline, and Elaine make the lack of appointments available (due to the GP shortage) bearable. Its always a pleasure to pop to the surgery for routine appointments. Who wants to be greeted by sour faced, grumpy staff, when you already feel unwell? Not me! The cheery welcome and genuine warmth from these girls makes all the difference.