05/10/2006 - Protest outside Alexandra Hospital

Hundreds of members of the general public held a rally outside the Alexandra hospital to protest against any closure of the Maternity and Paediatric services.

There was univeral support for keeping Paediatric and Maternity services at the Alexandra hospital.

Speakers at the event included

• Julie Kirkbride (MP - Bromsgrove)
• Tony Rabaiotti (Unison)
• A speach was also read on behalf of Jackui Smith (MP - Redditch)

There was united cross party support, as well as the backing from the unions to keep these services at the local Redditch hospital.

The Rally marched into the hospital grounds to the tune of "Casualty" with the cry "Lets go and show the trust we meen business". Passing motorists and visitors to the hospital showed their support to the campaign.

Staff at the hosiptal were ordered not to attend or speak at the event. A fact that has dissapointed all concerned.

Although Jacqui Smith could not be at the event due to Government buiness she indicated her full support for the on going campaign.

Unison steward Steven Watson-Morris said

We had our three children delivered at this hospital. I really don't want to see them close maternity. I can't believe management are putting profit before people's lives.

Resident Audrey Humphries said

We fought to get this hospital and now, just 20 years later, all this is happening. We came here to show how concerned we are about the possibility of maternity going - it'll be a disaster. People's lives will be at risk.