MORE than 500 NHS staff and their supporters marched through Leeds on Saturday demanding an end to the “dismantling” of the health service.

Trade unionists with banners and campaign groups rallied in front of the town hall, where speakers condemned the government’s destruction of the NHS as it approaches its 74th anniversary.

Speakers accused ministers of being responsible for lengthening waiting lists and severe understaffing as the Tory privatisation attack continues.

Retired consultant paediatrician Dr John Puntis, co-chairman of campaign group Keep Our NHS Public, said that 6.3 million people are waiting for treatment.

“It's predicted that will be short of 19,000 GPs in another five years,” he said.

“I mean, there is a real crisis and it’s pointless saying the NHS has had more money than ever before.

“The question is what are the demands on the service and how can those be met?”

The march was led by the drum band of public service union PCS.