A doctor has decided to retire and resign after 38 years due to the constraints of the NHS.

Len Hirsch, 64, has been a senior partner at Fairbrook Medical Centre, in Borehamwood, since 2003 and a partner since 1980.

Now Dr Hirsch has decided to take early retirement due to the constraints the NHS is currently undergoing.

He said: "I have had a fantastic time working at Fairbrook but because the way the NHS is going I have decided to take early retirement.

"When I first started out as a GP there was many things we could do at the practice including stitching up wounds but now everyone has to be sent to A&E.

"A lot of things have changed but I cannot speak highly enough about the surgery.

"Borehamwood has changed a lot and there will be added pressure of GPs once all the flats and houses have been built in the town including the one in Fairbrook's garden.

"I already feel sorry for trainee nurses who are just starting out."

On Friday, the staff at Fairbrook held a party for Dr Hirsch and since then many of his patients have sent goodbye cards and even sent farewell gifts.

Inside the practice there is also a book for patients who cannot book for an appointment to sign.

Dr Hirsch said: "The messages people have left for me have been lovely. Some have been quite tearful.

"I will be retiring but not disappearing from the practice. I will be working there part time and at another centre but it is the right time for me to go from full time work.

"There will be a big hole in my life when I leave but I am looking forward to enjoying my cricket."

Dr Hirsch will be officially leaving Fairbrook Medical Centre this Friday.