Hospital protesters take to the streets over South Tyneside services

The protest took place at the Marine Park on Saturday, having been organised by campaign group Children’s A&E ... It is not a Done Deal, which was set up by a group of parents concerned about the future of the department.

The march was also attended by protesters from the Save South Tyneside Hospital Campaign.

Gemma Taylor, co-ordinator of SSTHC, said “The Save South Tyneside Hospital Campaign is supporting the mums, dads and grandparents taking part in a mini march around Marine Park to oppose the downgrading of the children’s A&E.

“This is part of preparations for the march and rally on Saturday, October 14 to save our 24/7 consultant-led children’s A&E, consultant-led maternity, special care baby unit and hospital stroke services.”

The Save South Tyneside Hospital campaign was launched in response to a new alliance between South Tyneside NHS Foundation Trust (STFT) and City Hospitals Sunderland (CHS).

There are fears the hospital in South Shields will be downgraded, with Sunderland Royal dealing with more acute services, when the newly created The South of Tyne Healthcare Group is in full swing.

The march and rally on October 14, will start at Haven Point Clock Tower at 11.30am. Campaigners will march along Ocean Road and King Street to the South Shields Market Place, where a rally will begin at 12.30pm.