CAMPAIGNERS opposing controversial plans for services at Trafford General, including downgrading the A & E unit, are calling on their supporters to turn out in force at a crunch meeting tonight.

A joint meeting of Manchester and Trafford's health scrutiny committee will discuss the outcome of the public consultation on the 'new health deal' for Trafford programme.

The board that oversees the new health deal - the Trafford Strategic Health Board - has given the plans an initial thumbs up,and meets again to make a final recommendation tomorrow.

Ahead of that, though, is the joint scrutiny committee meeting at Manchester Town Hall. The Save Trafford General group hopes councillors in both Manchester and Trafford will oppose the plans and call for them to be by referred to the Health Secretary, Jeremy Hunt.

Save Trafford General Campaign chairman, Matthew Finnegan, said: “The ball is now in the court of local councillors who have the power to de-rail these reckless and dangerous plans to cut services at Trafford General.

"The plans are driven by cost-cutting and the convenience of clinicians – not the best interests of local people who risk delays and longer queues for vital treatment at other already over-crowded hospitals.

“We will be urging local councillors from Trafford and Manchester to maintain a united front and to stand up for the interests of local patients. “We are also urging the public to turn out in force to attend the meeting to show the strength of local opposition to the cuts." Health bosses claim the revamp is vital to address 'pressing clinical and financial issues'.

Manchester and Trafford's joint health scrutiny committee meets at 6.30 on Monday, January 14 at Manchester Town Hall.