A town centre pharmacy has been repossessed by its landlords.

The notice, dated today (April 19), was spotted outside Jhoots Pharmacy, in Rainham Shopping Centre.

It is understood staff turned up to work this morning to find the place closed and several notices up in the window.

The possession notice reads: “Under the terms and conditions of your rental agreement or lease, we as acting agents and with the authority of your landlord have today entered these demised premises and have served notice and have taken possession.

“No unauthorised persons are permitted entry into these premises and any attempt to do so will result in criminal proceedings being instigated against you.”

Rainham Healthy Living Centre also sent a text message to patients warning them the pharmacy was “closed for the foreseeable”.

It asked anyone waiting to collect their prescriptions to pick them up from the surgery instead.

The notice added: “We currently do not have any further information but will update you when we do. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.”

However, a handwritten sign has since been placed in the window of Jhoots, which opened in the former Lloyds Pharmacy, saying it will be open again on Monday (April 22).

One customer, who had medication waiting to be collected, said: "I am just keeping my fingers crossed they do open Monday morning so I can get my stuff."

The precinct's nearest pharmacy is currently at Tesco, in Rainham Mark, which customers have reported is extremely busy as a result.

Jhoots was Rainham Shopping Centre’s only pharmacy after the small counter in Boots closed down.

Jhoots Pharmacy has been contacted for further information.