April 2009 Newsletter

Retirement
After 35 years as a GP at the Vale of Neath Practice based in Glynneath and Resolven, Dr. John Thomas has finally decided to hang up his stethoscope.

To celebrate and recognise his valuable contribution to the community - a surprise party was organised at the Glynneath Rugby Club, attended by nearly 200 well-wishers, including his wife and two daughters. Some local celebrities and friends gave personal tributes by entertaining everyone with colourful descriptions of him from their personal points of view! At the surprise party, Dr. Mark Daniels presented Dr. Thomas with a gold pocket watch inscribed with his initials and the legend “Irreplaceable”. This is a sentiment echoed by all those who knew him.

Dr. Thomas was a well-respected and dedicated doctor, and will be sorely missed by patients, colleagues and everyone at the practice. We all wish him a long and happy retirement and thank him for his years of service to the community.

Anyone wishing to make a donation to a retirement gift for Dr. Thomas can do so at Barclays Bank in the Glynneath High Street.

New Arrival
On the 1 st April, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong joined the Practice, as the latest partner. Dr Armstrong will be available in both Glynneath and Resolven, covering surgeries for 3.5 days per week. This is similar to the working arrangement for Dr. Steve Harrowing who has been with the Practice since last October.

Returning to Work
Dr. Sianed Burrow has now returned from maternity leave and will be available for surgeries on Monday's and Tuesday's of each week and alternate Wednesday mornings. Dr. Burrow has taken on the responsibility for the baby clinic and will be available in the Addoldy Road Clinic most Tuesday afternoons.

Surgery Rota
The surgery rota has been modified to incorporate the new doctors. The various surgeries are now on a rolling 6-week pattern to ensure equitable availability of doctor appointments in Glynneath and Resolven.

Access to Glynneath Clinics
Patients at the Glynneath surgery with an appointment between 10.45am and 2pm can obtain access via the back door. Please ring the bell on the left hand side of the door, to attract attention, and a receptionist will answer and remotely unlock the door for you. Please be patient as the receptionist may be busy with another patient and may take a moment or two to respond.