FOR more than two centuries, people in Hailsham have walked through the doors of the same High Street premises to collect medicines and seek advice.
That uninterrupted history will come to an end in September after Paydens announced the closure of its Hailsham branch.
Customers of Paydens Pharmacy, at 25 High Street, have been informed that the branch will merge with Seaforth Pharmacy in Vicarage Lane from Monday, September 14.
The move will bring to an end what is believed to be 222 years of continuous pharmacy trading from the Grade II listed building.
The Grade II listed building has been home to a pharmacy since 1804, according to the Hailsham Historical Society. Over the years it has traded under a succession of names, including Geerings, Edward Miller, C.U. Jenner and T.H. Parker, before continuing for much of the 20th century as Parker’s (Hailsham Chemists) under various owners, including Bebbs. Paydens acquired the business in April 2009.
In a letter sent to customers this week, Paydens said services would continue from Seaforth Pharmacy, which will continue to offer free prescription collection and delivery from local GP surgeries.
The company said patients wishing to continue receiving their medication through Paydens will need to change their nominated pharmacy to Seaforth Pharmacy. Customers can provide verbal consent when collecting a prescription or by contacting the Vicarage Lane branch by telephone. Alternatively, patients can nominate another pharmacy of their choice.
The letter states: “Seaforth Pharmacy is able to continue to offer the same free prescription collection and delivery service from the local surgeries. They will be able to collect your repeat prescription from your doctor and have it made up ready for collection from the pharmacy.”
Paydens thanked customers for their support, saying: “With many thanks for your continued support.”
