PROTEST GAINS PACE

Last week the Daily Echo threw its weight behind the campaign to save the Accident and Emergency Service and the maternity unit at the Island's hospital after it emerged they could face the axe.

The plans were revealed by health bosses in a document entitled Healthfit which raised the prospect of emergency services and vital maternity services being moved to the mainland, leaving St Mary's as little more than a cottage hospital.

Health bosses at the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Strategic Health Authority have so far refused to rule-out the controversial plans which have caused outrage.

Last week, Island MP Andrew Turner launched a "Hands off our Hospital" campaign which is backed by the Daily Echo.

Mr Turner is organised a petition to be handed into Downing Street. There will be street signings on Saturday, February 1 at 10.30am in St James' Square, Newport and at 2pm at Regent Street in Shanklin. The petition can also be signed at St Mary's Hospital and many supermarkets.

On Monday, Mr Turner will be among guest speakers at a mass meeting which is due to take place at 7pm at the Medina Theatre in Newport organised by the Island council.

Speakers are also due to include health bosses from the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Health Authority, members of Isle of Wight Council and health professionals.

Meanwhile, The Island's Townswomens' Guild who had planned to launch their own petition have joined forces with Mr Turner's campaign. It is also being backed by organisations as diverse as Help the Aged, the Chamber of Commerce, and Southern Vectis.

Iceland Foods in Newport asked for 20 petition forms last Saturday and on Monday contacted the campaign hotline on 01983 244244 to request 20 more as they had been completed.

Mr Turner said: "I am delighted that the Island is speaking with one voice. If these ideas were implemented they would affect every Islander and is in danger of hitting morale and recruitment at the hospital.