FOLLOWING a number of staff leaving Launceston Hospital, it will be closing 10 of the 20 beds it has available in the two wards from November.

Staff levels are low because of internal promotions, maternity leave, retirement and redeployment back to Stratton Hospital — which is set to reopen November 1.

Peninsula Community Health (PCH) has stated the bed closures are temporary while they recruit new staff, but are yet to say when they might re-open.

A spokesperson for PCH said: "The beds are being closed to ensure we have a safe staffing level.

"We are actively recruiting for hospital staff for both Launceston and Stratton hospitals and once the vacant positions are filled we will be able to re-open the beds."

For the full report, and a round up of the area news and sport, please see this week's edition of the 'Post'.