Fears over hospital's future (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Fears over hospital's future

RESIDENTS in Fairford and Lechlade are waiting with bated breath for a decision to made on the future of their cottage hospital.

Cotswold and Vale Primary Care Trust is considering scrapping in-patient care at Fairford Hospital, but civic leaders and Fairford Hospital League of Friends are desperate to save the 15 hospital beds used for recuperation and relief care.

And for one Lechlade pensioner the fight is particularly heartfelt.

George Morris, 88, of Chancel Way, and his wife Yvonne have used the facilities in Fairford for the last four years.

Three years ago George had his larynx removed and, after being diagnosed with prostate cancer, he also requires regular blood transfusions.

The couple feel very strongly about keeping the in-patient care and particularly paid tribute to the hospital's staff and facilities.

Yvonne said: "I don't know what we will do if the beds are closed - often George has to stay overnight after his blood transfusions.

"It is terribly important to us that we keep the hospital on account of my eyes. I can't drive anymore so transport is always difficult. It is difficult enough getting to Fairford but to get over to Gloucester and Cheltenham is exhausting."

Aside from George's blood transfusions, the couple have also been treated at Fairford for chiropody.

And they are, like so many patients and local councillors, very sceptical about the future of health care in the Cotswolds.

George, who speaks through a mechanical voice box, said: "During my stays at the hospital I have been able to witness the care and personal attention given to all patients who, for the most part, are infirm and unable to cope because of their medical or surgical conditions and without transport.

"They are looked after by a dedicated team of experienced nurses for whom I have the highest praise.

"The closure of this hospital I am sure would be a great mistake and would be a retrograde step in the provision of health care.

"I understand that the overall cost of running the hospital is a mere fraction of the overall budget for the county.

"It would be more appropriate to increase the facilities than to consider the closing of this much-loved hospital."

George's medical problems sometimes require him to be treated at the much larger hospitals in Cheltenham, Gloucester and Cirencester.

But Yvonne says after spending a week or so at these larger hospitals he is then able "to get back on his feet again" at Fairford.

She said: "It is so much nearer to home and nicer for me. Without the in-patient care at the hospital I am dependent on neighbours to drive me."

o A three-month consultation period on the future of Fairford Hospital begins on September 15, after which its fate will most likely be decided in January.