HUNDREDS of protesters gathered for a march to voice their anger against a series of health cuts.
More than 300 health campaigners gathered in Llandudno on Saturday to send a message to Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board over its decision to close Prestatyn Community Hospital and transfer care for the sickest babies from Glan Clwyd Hospital to Arrowe Park, the Wirral.
Calls were made for health board chief executive Mary Burrows and Health Minister Lesley Griffiths to resign, as MPs, AMs and local councillors joined protesters on a march up Mostyn Street, before a rally outside the town hall.
David Morris, chair of Prestatyn Community Hospital League of Friends, said:
“The support at the march was unbelievable.
“People had come from across North Wales to show their support.
“People went away with the message we have got to keep on fighting, we can’t let go. These cuts are the wrong decision.”
Admissions at Prestatyn Community Hospital have now been stopped.
Inpatient services will be moved to Holywell with other services relocated to
Rhyl’s Royal Alexandra Hospital, where a new 30 bed community hospital will be built.
Mr Morris said: “The hospital has been a hub for health care in the community for the past 75 years and I fear it will close within the next few days.
“This is the end of an era for Prestatyn.”
A health board spokesperson said: “We are aware that strong views continue to be expressed regarding our decision to proceed with a number of service changes in North Wales.
“These have been very hard decisions for the board to make, but we have a responsibility to provide safe and sustainable healthcare services for the people we serve and this is why change is needed.”