A public meeting called by a trade union to formulate a plan to secure the long-term future of Hinchingbrooke Hospital was held last night (Wednesday).

About 50 people turned out to discuss the GMB’s relaunch of the Hands off Hinchingbrooke campaign at Huntingdonshire Community Church in Huntingdon.

Union members, politicians and members of the public spoke about their concerns following the announcement that Circle – the first private company to manage a hospital - is to end its tenure three years into a 10-year franchise.

Steve Sweeney, GMB regional officer, said: “We are 100 per cent behind the staff at Hinchingbrooke Hospital who are working in very difficult circumstances.

“When the going gets tough the private sector get going and they have left it to the already strained public sector.

“We must make sure that we fight to keep it.”

The group is now putting together ideas for its campaign, including distributing cards and leaflets, setting up a website, a fundraising gig and supermarket bag pack, and a demonstration.