A FAMILY-run GP surgery is being taken over by a firm based in Leicester following the death of “one of the most loved GPs in Southend.”

North Shoebury Surgery, in Frobisher Way, Shoebury will be taken over by Spirit Healthcare in the next few weeks.

Bosses insist the takeover will not impact patients’ services.

Doctor Paul Moss, who qualified as a GP in 1979, ran the surgery alongside his family but died in June 2021.

His father, Neville Moss, worked as practice manager, while his mother, Peggy Moss, managed the reception.

The announcement from the surgery said: “The current partners of North Shoebury recently were invited to re-tender for the current NHS contract which offers primary care services.

“Sadly the partners were not successful with their bid, and the contract has been awarded to a private health provider, Spirit Healthcare, as of April 1.

“The handover process will now begin, this process will not affect your GP-Led services and the surgery will continue to operate in the same professional manner with the same facilities that are currently in place.

“Patients will not be required to re-register under the new provider, your care records will automatically transfer to the new contract holder on April 1.

“Spirit Healthcare will be running engagement sessions in the coming weeks, offering you a chance to find out more and ask questions. These sessions will be advertised on the practice website in due course.”

The late Mr Moss, 65, from Thorpe Bay, was known for dedicating his life to both his career and patients, who have been left heartbroken.

At the time of his passing, patients paid touching tributes to the late doctor, describing him as “caring, hard-working and professional”.

North Shoebury Surgery was founded in September 1986.

Spirit Healthcare is taking over five other surgeries in Purfleet, Thurrock and Tilbury.

The firm was contacted for comment.