Royal Surrey County Hospital pulls out of merger plans

A Surrey hospital has pulled out of talks about a potential merger with another health trust in the county.

The Royal Surrey County Hospital NHS Trust was considering a merger with Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust.

However, a spokesman for the hospital said it had decided to explore other options " following a great deal of thought and discussion".

Andrew Woodhead, of Epsom Hospital, said it was "disappointing news".

He added: "We are reassured that their decision is in no way a reflection on Epsom Hospital, its staff or the services it provides."