NHS bosses should consider re-opening an axed centre that helped people recover after hospital treatment, a patient survey has concluded.

The reablement centre at Benjamin Court in Cromer was closed down by NHS Norfolk and Waveney last year as part of a scheme to offer more services in the community.

The closure went ahead despite a fervent community campaign to save it, which saw petitions and marches held.

But now, a study from patient group Healthwatch Norfolk has shown there is still an appetite to save the facility.

The organisation carried out a survey into its service, which included online feedback and face-to-face feedback in north Norfolk, which received almost 300 responses.

Of the respondents, 79pc said they would favour the reinstatement of the centre in its previous form - providing rehabilitation and convalescence services.

In its study, Healthwatch Norfolk made three recommendations to the integrated care board, including urging it to look into re-opening the centre.

Alex Stewart, chief executive of Healthwatch NorfolkAlex Stewart, chief executive of Healthwatch Norfolk (Image: Healthwatch Norfolk)

Alex Stewart, its chief executive, said: "Our role is to communicate the views of people in the county and their overwhelming request was for Benjamin Court to be re-opened, and we would want this option to be explored."

But Tracey Bleakley, chief executive of NHS Norfolk and Waveney said this would not be financially viable.

(Image: NHS Norfolk and Wavney)

She said: "Unfortunately, we have not been able to find a solution that fits with the other services already available and the model of care we want to provide, or which is financially viable.

"As a result, we will return the site to NHS Property Services, which will enable them to look for alternative tenants.

"We will continue to keep under review the services available in north Norfolk, and if other opportunities arise to invest in services, we will explore them fully, as we have with Benjamin Court."