FORMER Prime Minister Sir John Major, who as MP for Huntingdon was instrumental in opening the hospital in 1985, has issued a call to arms to save Hinchingbrooke from disastrous cuts. It is sheer lunacy to even consider reductions in local hospital servi

FORMER Prime Minister Sir John Major, who as MP for Huntingdon was instrumental in opening the hospital in 1985, has issued a call to arms to save Hinchingbrooke from disastrous cuts.

"It is sheer lunacy to even consider reductions in local hospital services," he said. "Neither Addenbrooke's nor Peterborough can cope with the increased demand that would arise from the reduction in services at Hinchingbrooke.

"The recent demonstration (on October 7) by well over 1,000 people is very rare for Huntingdon. People here do not normally take to the streets to protest. The fact that such a large number did indicates the anger felt by those wishing to retain and increase our local health provision.

"I have lived in Huntingdon for 30 years and have never known there to be such dismay. I strongly support the district-wide campaign to save our hospital and will be expressing my own concerns

direct to the chairman of the strategic health authority.

"I believe the Government, the strategic health authority and the Hinchingbrooke Hospital trust must listen to those whose lives will be most affected by their decision-making. I urge the health authority to end the current rumours and fears and make it clear that Hinchingbrooke Hospital is not in danger and that it will continue to expand and to serve local health needs.

"As the local population has increased so has the need for hospital services. In Huntingdonshire, we live in an area of huge growth, with thousands more houses being built at the behest of this Government.

"Hinchingbrooke is at the very heart of our local community. We must protect it, improve it, and secure its - and our own - long-term future.