A PHARMACIST claims more people are supporting their local chemists since he launched a "use us or lose us" campaign.

Nader Siabi, 47, is the managing director of three Pharma Health Care branches on Canvey, in Long Road, Furtherwick Road and High Street.

He believes the decision to award Boots the contract to run the pharmacy at the island's new £8.3million health centre, at the Paddocks, could sound the deathknell for independent pharmacies on the island.

So, he launched his campaign in December and has seen his trade increase.

He said: "People are dismayed at this and one thing we've noticed is we are getting more people coming to us than before.

"People are not happy about the pharmacy in the health centre because it means there will just be the one pharmacy.

"Elderly people will have to make their way to the centre instead of their local surgery and, unless people continue to use our services, we will to close.

"That means people will have to travel to the centre to get their prescriptions because there will be no one else left open."

Mr Siabi fears within six months of the centre opening the High Street branch could go, and Furtherwick Road could follow, unless they are well-used.

He added: "Everyone has been very supportive."

South East Essex Primary Care Trust awared the health centre contract to Boots in September.

It believes basing a pharmacy at the centre will make it quicker and simpler for patients to collect their prescriptions.

Angela Wong Keet, spokesman for the trust, said: "After an initial written tender, three bidders were shortlisted and invited to present to a selection committee.

"The presentations were focused on the range and level of services to be provided to the patients.

"The selection panelists were unanimous in their decision to grant a lease to Boots Alliance, who demonstrated best knowledge of the health needs of the local area.

"As part of the selection process for the pharmacy provider, all local pharmacists were notified and invited to apply for the contract."

The centre will provide a broad range of health services, including GP surgeries, and is scheduled to open in February 2009.