Mid Wales politicians have criticised a decision to move stroke services from a local hospital.

The acute stroke unit moved from the Prince Charles Hospital in Merthyr Tydfil to join with the acute stroke unit at the Royal Glamorgan Hospital in Llantrisant last week.

Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board said the "urgent, temporary change" was needed due to staff shortages.

The health board said: "This change is being made because we do not currently have the number of specialist stroke doctors to provide a safe service at both hospitals at this time.

"This change does not affect the ability of emergency departments at any of our hospitals - including Prince Charles Hospital, or Princess of Wales, Bridgend - to treat those attending with a stroke or suspected stroke."

In a written statement, Mid and West Wales MS, Jane Dodds asked the Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care Jeremy Miles how he is planning to support patients from south Powys affected by the closure.

Ms Dodds expressed concern over the impact that the move could have on stroke victims living in the south of Powys, who will now have to travel further for treatment.

The Royal Glamorgan Hospital in Llantrisant is an extra 20 miles south of Merthyr, adding anywhere upwards of 40 minutes to a journey.

"It is unfair to ask stroke victims to travel even further just so they can access vitally needed care," said Ms Dodds.

"We cannot afford any more cuts to our healthcare services, the Welsh Government must stop neglecting Mid Wales and step in to help those impacted by this closure.

"It is imperative that we make sure everyone living in Powys has access to the right medical care when and wherever it’s needed.”

James Evans, MS for Brecon and Radnorshire and Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Health & Social Care, last month labelled it as "devastating news" for both his constituents in the Brecon area and residents in the Merthyr region.

"It is imperative that treatment for strokes starts as soon as possible - any delay to treatment results in poorer recovery outcomes or death," he said.

"To move these services further away makes no sense.

"This decision came out of the blue to staff and patients alike, and has major implications for stroke treatment for the population of South Powys. Cwm Taff Health Board and Powys Teaching Health Board should consult with the public over these changes."

Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board held a meeting to tell MPs, Senedd Members and council leaders in the region about the changes.

The health board said: "We appreciate the concern that the announcement about this urgent change has caused. However, a lack of specialist staff in the UK, worsened by long-term sickness and absence within the CTMUHB stroke team, means it is currently not possible to maintain a safe acute stroke service across two hospitals.

"Making this change means CTMUHB can continue to provide a service that saves lives and reduces the devastating effects of stroke for as many patients as possible."