THE people of Ludlow - and far beyond - are giving a warm-hearted response to the massive campaign to save the town's community hospital.

They queued at the Advertiser's stand in Tuesday's Local Produce Market to sign a petition against the proposed closure. They also signed up to pay a fiver to become members of the League of Hospital Friends. More than 500 of the Advertiser's car stickers and posters were also given out.

Posters also emphasised that Ludlow is not the only community hospital in danger. Whitchurch and Bridgnorth are also under threat. Among those who came to Ludlow was Ian Fraser, one of the leaders of the battle to save Whitchurch.

He hopes to bring a group from his town to a public meeting in Ludlow on January 5. This will give the public a chance to quiz three key decision makers - Liz Owen, chairman of the Shropshire Primary Care Trust, her chief executive Julie Grant and Clive Walsh, programme director for the Strategic Service Plan.

"It's important that all three towns stick together over this to save one being played off against the others," Mr Fraser said.

The stand was generously given to campaigners by the market's organisers, Local to Ludlow.

The League of Friends were at the stand all day, along with help from Ludlow mayor Graeme Kidd, former MP Matthew Green, South Shropshire District Council leader Heather Kidd and members of the town, district and county councils.

Plans are being laid for simultaneous marches in Ludlow, Bridgnorth and Whitchurch on January 7. Ludlow's march will begin from Castle Square and St Laurence's Church at 2pm to arrive at the hospital at around 2.30pm.