Petition set to break 10k

A Reporter Series petition opposing any downgrading of emergency services at Dewsbury and District Hospital has now been signed by more than 9,200 people.

It asks health bosses to think again about proposals to downgrade the department, which was visited by around 80,000 people in the 12 months up to June.

The Mid Yorkshire Hospitals Trust is looking at two options for services at its Dewsbury, Wakefield and Pontefract sites.

Under the first option, Dewsbury would keep a full A&E department capable of handling more serious cases.

The second option would see the service downgraded to an urgent care centre for minor illnesses and injuries only, with the most serious cases dealt with at Pinderfields in Wakefield or elsewhere.

The Trust is planning a formal consultation on a preferred option, which is due to begin early next year.

How you can show your support

If you would like to sign the petition online, simply follow the link on any of our websites.

You can also sign the petition in more than 120 north Kirklees venues, including the Reporter office.

Alternatively, you can request a copy for your workplace, club, or society to complete by using the details on page two.