A SAFE containing computer back-up tapes which hold personal health information about patients registered at St Pauls Surgery in Winchester was stolen during a burglary over the weekend.

A spokesman said: "We would like to reassure patients registered at the surgery that the chances of anyone being able to do anything untoward with the tapes are very small indeed.

"This is because specialised computer equipment is needed to run the tapes and the information on it is protected by a password. Anyone trying to read the information would also then need to have very advanced computer skills or access to a special computer programme to make any sense of it."

The GPs and staff at the surgery are all shocked and upset by the burglary.

The safe was stored in a locked room and the burglars broke through the rear entrance and the locked office door setting off the alarm.

At this stage of the investigation, Hampshire Constabulary is keeping an open mind regarding the motive of this crime.

The spokesman said however, most incidents of this nature involving GP practices are people looking for controlled drugs, money or prescription pads. The safe at St Paul's Surgery didn't contain such items.

The surgery is writing to patients to explain what has happened in more detail, offer support if required and provide reassurances that the chances of their personal data being accessed or used improperly are extremely remote.

"We understand that some patients might be worried about this or find the information hard to understand.

"For that reason the Hampshire PCT has set up a telephone helpline for people to call if they have any questions.

"The people running the helpline are all NHS staff and will treat all calls in strict confidence. If you want to call them, they are on 0845 602 6834 between 8am and 8pm."

PC Jonathan Duggan of North Walls police station, said: "On Saturday, September 6 offenders gained entry to St Paul's Surgery in Winchester. Once inside they broke in to a secure office where they took a safe which contained tapes containing personal health information.

"I am appealing for anyone who was in or around the St Pauls Hill area of Winchester on the morning of Saturday, September 6, who saw or heard anything suspicious to come forward and help us with our investigation."

Anyone with any information regarding this incident should contact PC Duggan at North Walls police station on 0845 045 4545 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.