Beccles Medical Practice: Dr Tim Morton's 40 years of caring

Doctor Tim Morton, based at Beccles Medical Practice, became fully qualified over 40 years ago, on July 15, 1983.

After first qualifying in 1983, Dr Morton had spells working in New Zealand and Australia before making a home in Beccles.

He became a partner at Beccles Medical Centre on February 1, 1990.

To mark the 40-year landmark, Dr Morton was greeted with a surprise cake from his colleagues on Thursday, August 10.

He said: "It has been a real honour and privilege, a fantastic career, made better by working with such lovely people.

"It has been a very interesting career, and long may it continue.

"It was a delight to work away after first qualifying, but after I started in Beccles I had no reason to leave."

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Dr Tim Morton of Beccles Medical Centre (Image: Sonya Duncan)

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DR Tim Morton used to work as a responder with Norfolk Accident Rescue Service. Picture submitted by Norfolk Accident Rescue Service. (Image: Norfolk Accident Rescue Service)

Throughout his career, Dr Morton says the computerisation of the medical world has been the biggest change he has witnessed.

The 64-year-old, who runs triathlons and cycles regularly, said: "When I first started at Beccles we had one computer.

"The advances in technology have taken our work to a new level and have meant we can be more efficient and see far more patients.

"The computerisation of how we work is more advanced since I began than any drug developments I have seen."

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Beccles GP, Dr Tim Morton took part in a 1,000 mile cycle ride in aid for the help for heroes charity. (Image: Newsquest)

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James Cracknell, double Olympian gold medallist and Dr Tim Morton to his right at John O'Groats prior to setting off on a challenge (Image: Newsquest)

Despite advances in technology smoothing the way the NHS operates, Dr Morton's biggest concern is the lack of resources and lifestyle choices of the public.

He said: "Obesity is a terrible issue which needs addressing or the situation could become grave, while we have a lack of resources, so much money is spent on tackling illness rather than preventing it.

"Diabetes levels have quadrupled, if more people played sport, ate better, drank less, didn't smoke or vape and in general looked after their health, the burden would be far less on the NHS."

Dr Morton has campaigned in the politics of the health service for more than 15 years and wants to raise awareness of the lack of resources the NHS faces.

Dr Tim Morton with his cake to celebrate 40 years of service to the NHS (Image: Submitted)

Dr Tim Morton of Beccles Medical Centre (Image: Newsquest)