Community spirit rallies (From Gazette Series)

Community spirit rallies

SIR - Over the years Thornbury has had a strong community spirit which surfaced once again at the Armstrong Hall on November 10, to hear what the health authorities had to say about the proposed closure of ward(s) at Thornbury Hospital.

Representatives of South Gloucestershire, Thornbury town and local parish councils, the League of Friends, the churches of Thornbury, the Chantry and U3A members were just some of the 200 or so folk attending the well-organised meeting.

Word must have reached the authorities of the ground swell that was manifesting itself within the area and low and behold it was announced that £3.5 million was earmarked for the development of Thornbury as a community hospital.

This included Grace ward (if relocated to Blackberry Hill) as a male ward and Henderson ward for female patients. Also a whole new range of outpatient services were proposed.

Jane Gibbs, Primary Care Trust director said: "It is the intention not to close the hospital - absolutely not." Attending the protest meeting a month ago the reverse seemed possible.

Well done, Thornbury, your voice was heard. Thanks also to the Gazette and, I understand, over 1,000 signatures and in excess of 100 letters were written in concern.

Finally, thank you, Jane, for your reassuring words. May we see fulfilment in the coming days!

Roger Staley, Kington Mead Farm, Thornbury