YATE’S long-awaited Minor Injuries Unit (MIU) is marking its first year of opening after treating almost 8,500 people.

The MIU, at the West Gate Health Centre, opened in June last year after years of campaigning by local councillors and community leaders.

It preceeds the downgrading of Frenchay Hospital in 2013, when Southmead will become home to the region’s main acute hospital.

The Yate MIU was warmly welcomed when it first opened as the first dedicated MIU in South Gloucestershire to be open seven days a week, 365 days of the year.

A recent survey found 98 per cent of patients have been happy with the quality of care they received.

Matron Peter James said: "Our first year has been really successful with so many people making use of the great care and facilities at Yate MIU to access swift treatment.

"More than half of patients that go to the accident and emergency department could be dealt with in a minor injuries unit."

The unit, South Gloucestershire Community Health Services which from April 2011 became part of North Bristol NHS Trust, is equipped to treat a whole range of minor injuries from cuts to sprains, from bites to broken arms, and boasts its own specialist eye technology.

However, health bosses have come under fire in recent weeks after a decision to cut the number of hours the on-site x-ray facility is open was taken without any local consultation. The NHS has now agreed to make the reduction in hours temporary, subject to a full consultation with parish councillors, patients and residents. Said Mr James: "With on-site x-ray facilities available from 9am - 5pm weekdays we can rapidly diagnose and treat patients, usually within two hours.

"The whole team is looking forward to the next year and to providing first rate care and treatment for the local community."