AN NHS dental practice in Worcester is to close – just months after its founding dentist died in a tragic motorbike crash.

The Green Dental Practice, which was opened by city dentist John Bue in 2002, is shutting its doors because no-one else has come forward to take over the practice.

Yesterday devastated members of staff, who are still coming to terms with the sudden death of 45-year-old Mr Bue, were too upset to comment.

Paul Bates, chief executive of NHS Worcestershire, said they would continue to look for someone to take over the running of the practice or open a new dental surgery in Dines Green.

He said: “Following the tragic death of the dentist at the Green Dental Practice last year, NHS Worcestershire was legally required to tender for this service. The tender process is currently underway and NHS Worcestershire remains committed to providing dental services within the Dines Green area.”

The surgery in Gresham Road, Dines Green, has more than 7,000 patients on its books and employs eight people, including four part-time dentists. One patient, who did not want to be named, was shocked by the “shambolic” decision to close such a popular practice in the heart of a very tight-knit community.

She said: “I don’t know how easy it’s going to be to find another NHS dentist. There certainly isn’t another one round here. This is just terrible news.”

Mr Bates said there are NHS places available at other practices in the county. Anyone looking for an NHS dentist is urged to call the dental helpline on 01905 760111 or log on to getmeadentist.com.

Father-of-two Mr Bue moved from a practice in Birmingham to open the Dines Green surgery in December 2002. Within a fortnight of the register being opened more than 2,000 people had signed up.

He died in a motorbike crash on the A4440 between Powick and Rushwick in June, leaving a wife and two children.