Campaign calls on council members to block closure

The launch of the NHS in July 1948 was marked at Trafford General Hospital in Manchester by the symbolic handing over of keys by Labour health minister Nye Bevan.

But Manchester health authorities plan to close the hospital's A&E, intensive care unit, children's services and acute surgery as part of the coalition attack on the NHS.

The proposals, which will increase pressure on other hospitals in the area, brought a furious response from the public. Campaign groups marched in protest and have collected the support of 12,500 petition signatures.

Despite public opposition, Trafford's strategic programme board has given the go-ahead.

But the plans can be halted, at least temporarily, if councillors refer them to Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt.

Activists will lobby meetings of Manchester and Trafford's health scrutiny committees, which can make the referral.

Save Trafford General Campaign chairman Matthew Finnegan said: "The ball is now in the court of local councillors who have the power to derail these reckless plans."

nThe scrutiny committee meets at 6.30pm next Wednesday at Quay West, Trafford Wharf Road, Trafford Park.

Manchester's joint health scrutiny committee meets at 6.30 on Monday 14 at Manchester Town Hall.