THE temporary closure of clinics providing leg braces, splints and built-up shoes for young and elderly patients in Wyre Forest has outraged health campaigners.

People in need of the orthotics services were previously able to attend three clinics, which were held every week at Kidderminster Treatment Centre.

Services in both Kidderminster and Redditch have now been temporarily transferred to Worcestershire Royal Hospital in Worcester because of staff shortages.

Liz Davies, of Health Concern, said: "Once again, services have been withdrawn from the people of Wyre Forest without communication or consultation and we have been told it's due to lack of clerical staff.

"They are vulnerable people - many of them can talk for themselves and many can't. They are not used to going out there and fighting to retain the services they need."

Anne Mace, also of Health Concern, said it would be a great inconvenience for both elderly and disabled people who would have to travel to Worcester.

Jane Nott, of Rock, takes her seven-year-old daughter, Alison, who has severe learning difficulties, to the clinic for corrective boots.

She said the changes would be a big upheaval for Alison who gets a new pair of shoes three or four times a year.

Janet Marie Clark, spokeswoman for Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, said it was a temporary measure until the trust filled two administration posts.

She added orthotists based at Worcestershire Royal Hospital would "outreach" each week to see patients on the wards at Kidderminster Hospital and would also arrange for collections and delivery of kit and equipment and respond to orders taken and made for patients.

A central telephone number is available to Kidderminster patients for urgent ad hoc orthotic queries.