A COUNCIL leader has outlined plans for a family rally and march in protest of proposals to downgrade maternity services at a hospital.
Protestors want consultantled maternity and children’s services retained at the Friarage Hospital, in Northallerton, rather than people having to travel to The James Cook University Hospital, in Middlesbrough.
The rally will take place from 2pm on Saturday, May 26, starting at County Hall in the town, where the rally will be addressed by local MP William Hague.
There will then be a march along Northallerton High Street, past the Friarage Hospital to the adjoining Bullamoor Memorial Fields.
Richmondshire District Council leader John Blackie said: “The event has taken a great deal of organising and cost around £10,000.”
He thanked the parish councils that had donated towards the event and said there would be a bucket collection at County Hall on the day.
He said: “Can I ask people to join in, and do everything possible to encourage their family, friends and others in their communities to come as well.
“It really is that important.”
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