Jobs have been secured at a Lyme Regis pharmacy after a takeover has ensured it remains open.

Jhoots Pharmacy is using a £17.4 million fund with the support of HSBC to acquire the site at the Lyme Regis Medical Centre, that was previously owned and managed by Lloyds Pharmacy. 

The pharmacy already operates 63 sites across the UK and will use the money 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.

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.”

The deal has seen the health business acquire 36 new pharmacies across the country including one in the north of the county in Shaftesbury.

Mr Jhooty continued: “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.”

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.”