Burford Hospital closed its doors to in-patients yesterday due to crippling staff shortages.

It was revealed last month that the tiny 11-bed service was to be axed as part of a £1.15m cost-cutting scheme in the county.

The final closure was to take place in the middle of next year, but staff numbers have dwindled since the announcement. Some nurses have quit, and others are off sick.

Oxfordshire Community Health NHS Trust's director of nursing, Jane Dauncey, said: "It is regrettable that we have had to make this decision on the inpatient service, but what is crucial is that patients are cared for safely." She added there had been a number of shifts when only one nurse was running the hospital.

Two beds were closed earlier this week because nine shifts were left un-manned.

The eight remaining in-patients at the hospital were transferred to a ward in Witney, as will nurses working at Burford, until the situation is reviewed in the New Year.

Until then, only day services - used by around 36 patients a week - will continue.

Campaigners in Burford are now working with the trust to try to ensure the hospital has a future.

The proposals being discussed will be revealed at a public meeting at Burford Church next month.

Story date: Friday 24 December

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