Hundreds to join march to save Telford's A&E

Residents and councillors from all political backgrounds will join together to protest against the planned temporary closure of the Princess Royal A&E, which is set to begin next month.

It comes as a petition calling for a Government-backed solution to ongoing problems at Shropshire’s hospitals reached 30,000 signatures.

Now people from across the county are being asked to get involved and join the protest march.

Councillor Shirley Reynolds, who represents Wrockwardine Wood and Trench, said: “The people fought hard to get our hospital, and we’ll work just as hard to protect it.

“In my ward I’ve got families who rely on the PRH to provide vital 24/7 care and I’m not prepared to do nothing.”

Councillor Shaun Davies, leader of Telford & Wrekin Council, said: “An overnight closure would be a disaster to Telford & Wrekin families.”

Councillor Liz Clare, of Donnington, said: “We stood on the front line to demand a hospital for this town. We’ve grown out of all proportion since. SaTH should be held accountable.”

Councillor Angela McClements, from Arleston, said: “The NHS is in absolute chaos. My husband was diagnosed with bowel cancer, so I’ve seen the best of the NHS, and I’ve seen the worst too.

“Now we have the planned overnight closure of the PRH. The impact of that is devastating – we’re talking about people’s lives.”

Councillor Nicola Lowery, of Ironbridge, said: “As we know, this closure is completely avoidable.”

People will begin to gather in New Street, Tan Bank, Walker Street and Market Street from about 11am on Sunday.

The march itself will start at midday from Wellington Community Clock.

Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust’s board voted unanimously in favour of the temporary closure, citing concerns about a lack of staff.

The closure decision was made in September, and is set to begin on December 5.