Campaigners trying to save the last elderly care ward at Wharfedale Hospital have started a petition condemning the decision to close it.

Bosses at Leeds University Teaching Hospital Trust say Ward One at the Otley hospital will shut at the end of July as they face the pressure to save £60 million this financial year.

The decision has been criticised by protesters in the Support Wharfedale Campaign who fear the closure of the 24-hour in-patient care ward could lead to the eventual closure of the hospital.

They have told the trust to expect a battle and have now started the petition and called a public meeting tonight to discuss an action plan against the closure.

Campaign co-ordinator Charlie McEwan said: “I encourage everyone to add their name to this petition to support Wharfedale Hospital.

“If we value its future we are going to have to make sure our voices are heard.

“If everyone can sign this petition it will give a very, very clear message that we as a community are not prepared to let our hospital be destroyed.”

The trust said it had determined that the level of service it provided for older adults could be maintained without using Ward One and it was now investigating whether there was an alternative use for it.

The campaign against the ward closure has been backed by Leeds North West MP Greg Mulholland. Mr Mulholland (Lib Dem) said: “The decision of Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust to close the ward is nothing short of a disgrace and hugely disappointing for me and other local residents who have worked so hard to protect these services.

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