HASLEMERE Hospital's minor injuries unit, MIU, has opened its doors on Sunday for the first time.

As part of a pilot scheme to reduce the huge influx of minor injuries at The Royal Surrey Hospital, Guildford, the walk-in unit is to remain open on November 9, 16, 23, 30 and December 7.

Providing an improved local service for patients, the MIU is open from 9 am to 5 pm Monday to Friday, and for six hours from 2 pm to 8 pm on Sundays.

Patients are being encouraged to attend the MIU if they have minor injuries, including sprains, bruises, cuts, or sports injuries.

All patients will be assessed and treated at the unit by emergency nurse practitioners. At the end of the six-week trial, the unit, which was open for the first time last Sunday, will be assessed on how beneficial the extra opening hours have been in reducing the pressure on the accident and emergency department at Guildford.

Any patients unsure whether to attend the MIU or an accident and emergency department should first call 01483 782334.

Denise Flack, an emergency nurse practitioner, working at the unit, said: "We are delighted to be part of this initiative, extending the minor injuries service to the local community.

"We are here to help those who injure themselves in the week and now also on Sunday."

People can also phone NHS Direct, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, on 0845 4647 for health advice and information.

• Plans to extend the minor injuries department have been submitted to Waverley Borough Council. It follows a £295,000 grant to improve the minor operations theatre and installing a decontamination room.

The proposals include demolishing the current building and replacing it with a modular building.

Work is expected to take around 16 weeks, providing planning permission is granted, with the minor injuries unit moving to temporary accommodation in premises left vacant when the social services department relocated to Farnham.