PROTESTORS branded the Health Secretary's visit to East Cleveland Hospital in Brotton a “cheek” just weeks before its minor injuries unit shuts.

Jeremy Hunt's visit to the primary care trust hospital was to take a closer look at the South Tees Clinical Commissioning Group’s plans to make better use of the building.

Armed with placards, there were about 10 demonstrators with placards to greet the Heath Secretary on his tour.

Councillor Bill Suthers, Labour ward councillor for Guisborough on Redcar & Cleveland Council, said: “We think he has got a cheek coming here weeks before the minor injuries unit closes at this very hospital and the minor injuries unit in Guisborough is going.

“It’s a heck of a long way for people to get to James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough, especially on public transport.”

MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, Tom Blenkinsop, added: “This is a slap in the face for local NHS patients who have suffered the direct loss of services in their community.

“Jeremy Hunt, in what can only be described as blatant electioneering, will be visiting a hospital which in a matter of weeks will be losing its minor injuries unit entirely.

“This has also been made worse by his own Health Department approving the closure of the nearby New Skelton Walk-in Health Care Centre, a facility that partnered the local hospital and also provided a GP and nurse practitioner service on site.”