Dr Chinaeme Anachebe's patients turned out in force on Monday to protest outside the Hurst Road Medical Centre.

They handed in a petition of more than 400 names to Waltham Forest Primary Care Trust (PCT).

The protest was staged after the partnership between Drs Anachebe and Elizabeth Shui at the Sinnott Road surgery, Walthamstow, collapsed.

Under PCT protocol, the patient lists will be combined and advertised to be taken over by one GP.

But patients say the separate lists should remain with the current GPs.

Nigel Pollitt, chairman of the patients' group said: "There is a lot of talk about standards in healthcare and about developing power locally, but it all seems a complete sham if the PCT can shut its ears to what patients are saying.

"To add insult to injury, the PCT has written to us telling us we can register with any doctor we like, except of course Dr Anachebe."

A PCT spokeswoman said: "The concerns and supportive comments of patients will be taken into account when making arrangements for the practice. Dr Anachebe's patient group has been invited to a meeting next week with the chief executive and chair of Waltham Forest PCT to discuss their concerns."

The matter will also be discussed with the adults and older persons scrutiny committee of the council.

Drs Anachebe and Shui ended their partnership on Tuesday and an interim service is being provided at their practice until a decision is made.

Anyone who would like to find out more about the Dr Anachebe's patient group should contact 8521 2569.