There is yet more misery for Isle of Wight dental patients after a surgery in Newport announced it was to close.

The practice, on Gray's Walk, Pyle Street and run by MyDentist, will shut at the end of next month (January), it has been confirmed to the County Press.

In a letter sent to patients, the practice team said the 'difficult and disappointing' decision had not been 'taken lightly' and it was 'extremely sorry'.

An 'acute shortage' of dentists and subsequent 'recruitment challenges' are being blamed for the closure.

Read more: Hopes to solve Isle of Wight dentist crisis with mobile bus

A spokesperson for MyDentist told the County Press: "Sadly, because of this, we have had to take the very difficult decision to close our Newport practice on January 31.

"We’re in contact with patients to inform them of the changes and to advise the best way for them to continue getting access to care.”

A letter sent to patients reads: "Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, we have not been able to secure the dentists that we need to keep the practice open.

"We have also tried to keep the practice open under a new owner. Unfortunately, this too has not been possible.

"As such, it is with disappointment that we are left with no other option but to close the practice."

Isle of Wight County Press: Gray's Walk, from Scarrots LaneGray's Walk, from Scarrots Lane (Image: Isle of Wight County Press)

If patients are undergoing a course of dental treatment, this will be completed at the surgery by that date.

"Please attend any booked appointments as normal. You do not need to contact the practice", the letter added.

"We are extremely sorry that we have had to take this difficult decision and would like to thank you for your support to the practice during your time as a patient with us."

News of the closure is likely to come as a blow to Islanders, with patients already struggling to find practices.

In September, Healthwatch Isle of Wight told of almost impossible searches to source NHS surgeries taking on new patients.

But it said there could be 'hope on the horizon' with talk of a mobile dental bus to alleviate the worsening situation.