Battle wins strong backing (From Ludlow Advertiser)

Battle wins strong backing

THE Save Ludlow Hospital campaign will receive a major boost at the town's next Local Produce Market on December 20.

Kate and Peter Norman, who organise the popular event in Castle Square, have generously given The Advertiser's campaign a free stall for the day.

The League of Hospital Friends, Ludlow Chamber of Commerce and representatives of both major political parties have linked up with The Advertiser to give out car stickers and collect signatures for a petition to the House of Commons.

The Normans made their offer after last week's market when Paul Harris included a pile of stickers on his Little Beer Shoppe stall. "Everyone's appalled by the proposal and we need to prevent it happening," Mr Harris said.

Liz Griffin, editor of the Advertiser, said "We are very pleased to take up Kate and Peter Norman's extremely generous offer. It shows just what a high level of support there is for this important campaign."

The Friends will also hand out its own leaflets in a boost to recruit new members.

"The more members we have, the more clout we will have," said Friends committee member Pat Hansen. "We have 300 members but I hope we can reach 1,000 by the time this campaign reaches its peak."

Town councillor Graeme Perks, who is past chairman of Ludlow & District Chamber of Trade and Commerce, pledged the organisation's support. He is also planning a collection for the Friends at the annual Boxing Day tug of war between The Feathers and The Bull in Corve Street. Anyone who wants to volunteer for the collection can contact him on 01584 856562.

Car stickers and the "Save Ludlow Hospital" petition are available in the Advertiser's offices at 7 Corve Street and in shops all over the town.