New bid for Accident & Emergency services in Hinckley.

NHS chiefs are facing new pressure for accident and emergency and maternity services to be based in Hinckley.

Hinckley's County Councillor, Michael Mullaney, has written to Health ministers and launched a petition in support of the plan.

Councillor Mullaney has told Ministers that, "We have a growing population around Hinckley that needs such services. People in Hinckley, Burbage, Barwell, Earl Shilton and the nearby villages deserve to have both accident and emergency and maternity services provided more locally." He says that these facilities could be based at an expanded Ashby Road Community Hospital.

The Lib Dem Councillor has launched a petition for local residents to support the campaign and is asking local GPs for their views. The petition can signed at www.bosworthlibdems.org.uk and paper copies can be obtained by calling 01455 699801.

Councillor Mullaney says that he has found strong support for the plan whilst campaigning to replace controversial MP David Tredinnick. The Lib Dem Councillor came a close second in the constituency last time. He hopes to gain the few extra votes he needs from people who think that a change of MP is now needed.

"Residents are astounded," says Michael Mullaney, "that our MP has hit the headlines for wanting to bring astrology in to the NHS. It is not star gazing that we need, it is actual investment in local health services."