**Respected Newport GP Dies Suddenly, Tributes Pour in from Community**
The Newport community was left in shock and mourning this week following the unexpected death of Dr Graeme Yule, a distinguished and much-loved senior GP at St Julian’s Medical Centre. Dr Yule, regarded as a key figure in the local health landscape, passed away suddenly over the weekend, prompting heartfelt tributes from colleagues, patients and numerous residents whose lives he had touched throughout his long career.
St Julian’s Medical Centre shared the sombre news in an official statement, expressing profound grief at the loss of a “deeply respected member” of their team. The statement highlighted Dr Yule’s compassion and unwavering dedication: “Dr Yule’s commitment to patient care and his support for both staff and patients was unparalleled. He will be sorely missed by everyone who had been fortunate enough to work alongside him or benefit from his expertise.”
Dr Graeme Yule’s career at the practice spanned over three decades, with his 30-year service milestone being commemorated at the Centre in 2022. During this time, he became a cornerstone for the practice and a trusted healthcare provider for countless Newport families. Many in the local community regarded him not only as their doctor, but as a confidant and adviser, always ready to listen and provide dependable, honest advice.
Beyond general medical care, Dr Yule was particularly recognised for his work in the management of drug use, an area in which he held specialised certification. This expertise enabled him to contribute significantly to the wellbeing of some of the community’s most vulnerable members, further cementing his legacy as a compassionate and skilled GP.
The sudden nature of Dr Yule’s passing has understandably impacted the St Julian’s Medical Centre team. Practice representatives warned that this could result in some disruption to their normal services in the week ahead, as staff are supported and measures are put in place to maintain continuity of care. Patients with urgent healthcare needs were reassured that they should continue to contact the Centre as usual, with the team promising to “do our best to accommodate everyone and ensuring patient care remains our top priority”.
Tributes have continued flowing in from colleagues across the region. Particular mention was made by the team at Bryngwyn Surgery, who stated, “Many of us knew and respected Dr Yule profoundly. His loss will resonate across the wider community and healthcare network. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, his colleagues at St Julian’s, and his patients who are sure to feel his absence keenly.”
Online messages from former patients, staff and fellow healthcare professionals have painted a picture of a doctor who was not only highly skilled but deeply human in all his dealings. Many described working with him as a privilege, noting his constant readiness to support others and his ever-present willingness to listen. Several remembered him especially for his “sound and honest advice,” with others remarking on his unique ability to put even the most anxious patients at ease.
While the loss is undoubtedly immense for his family and those who worked alongside him, the outpouring of grief and gratitude from the Newport community is also a testament to the positive and lasting difference Dr Yule made during his distinguished career. As the medical centre and community come to terms with the loss, plans to honour his memory are expected to be discussed in the coming weeks.
For the time being, St Julian’s Medical Centre has expressed its gratitude to patients and the wider community for their understanding and support during this especially challenging period. Their statement concluded, “We appreciate the kindness and compassion being shown to our staff, as we mourn the loss of a valued colleague and friend.”
It is clear that Dr Graeme Yule’s legacy will endure for years to come, carried forward in the health and wellbeing of the Newport community he served so faithfully.