Health watchdogs have hit out at the decision to close a ward at the South West's biggest hospital because of staff shortages.

The chairman of the Plymouth Community Health Council says it is very bad news for patients at Plymouth's Derriford Hospital who are already plagued by long waiting lists.

The move, which will put up to 30 beds out of service for three months from the New Year, is part of plans to try to deal with an expected overspend of �7m and with a shortage of nurses.

Health council chairman Mike Storey said the ward closure was "payback time" for years of government underspending on health.

The chickens have really come home to roost for Derriford Mike Storey

He said: "It has been building up for many years and now the chickens have really come home to roost for Derriford."

Day surgery will also be cut back.

Staff will be taken from some departments, like the Freedom and Plym Day Case Units which operate on a reduced basis from January until March.

Staff stretched

The hospital's chief executive, Paul Roberts, said he was aware staff would be seriously inconvenienced and is asking for their help and support in making the arrangements work.

Plymouth Hospitals NHS Trust had 38 fewer nurses than the national average according to figures released earlier this year.

There are about 2000 people waiting up to 15 months for treatment and the Trust has to ensure nobody waits longer than 12 months by March 2003 and six months by 2005.

Sue Matthews, regional officer for the Royal College of Nursing, said government efficiency targets meant staff were being stretched to the limit.

She said: "Every member of staff is working as hard as they can, and I think there is not sufficient recognition of that from the government.

"Staff are asking whether they can deliver services any more efficiently with the number of staff."