A GROUP set up to investigate the closure of Guisborough Hospital's Maternity Unit has begun compiling a report to decide its future.

Work began yesterday after the final session of interviews was completed, at which a midwife supervisor shared her views at Eston Town Hall.

When completed later this month, Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's select committee chairman, Councillor Vilma Collins, will present the report and their conclusions at a public meeting.

She said: "We have conducted a thorough investigation and taken evidence from a number of interested groups and individuals.

"There is clearly a demand and expectation that this facility will be re-opened as quickly as possible.

"Our report will cover all the evidence that has been received, together with our conclusions and recommendations.

"It is only proper for the public to be the first to hear our findings."

The council established an all-party group to look into the decision by South Tees Acute Hospitals Trust to close the unit.

It was supposed to be a temporary measure but a date for re-opening was not set.

Since then, thousands of people have signed petitions to show their support for re-opening the unit.

Interviews with the trust and South Tees Community Health Council have also been conducted.

The meeting will take place at Laurence Jackson School, in Guisborough, on February 26, at 6.30pm.