TIME is running out to have your say on the proposed health cuts.That was the message today from campaigners who are engineering one huge last push to try and ensure as many people as possible voice their objections over the money-saving plans.

TIME is running out to have your say on the proposed health cuts.

That was the message today from campaigners who are engineering one huge last push to try and ensure as many people as possible voice their objections over the money-saving plans.

Suffolk East Primary Care Trust has already extended the consultation period, but it ends on November 30.

Helen Butcher, a member of the Save Felixstowe Hospitals action group, said: “Time is running out and people have to make their views known now.

“Lots of people have already responded and we are delighted with that, but we need the PCT to understand the strength of feeling of the public and the only way of doing that is to make sure they get a huge response.

“These cuts - especially closing the Bartlet - will have a devastating effect on our health services and will be something we will regret in the long term.”

Members of the action group have been distributing copies of the PCT's Changing for the Better document in the town, and copies are also available from The Evening Star offices at 172 Hamilton Road, Felixstowe.

People can write letters giving their views on the proposals or fill in the form in the booklet.

Mrs Butcher said: “People can send their responses to the address in the brochure, give them to any member of the action group, or drop them in at doctor's surgeries as they have an internal post system to the PCT.”

The PCT has been told to pay off the millions of pounds' debt it owes and balance its books.

Its proposals for change include closing and selling off the Bartlet as rehabilitation and convalescence units will not be needed in future because patients will be sent home earlier from hospital to be looked after by travelling care teams.

PCT head of communications Jeremy Peters said the trust had already received a large number of responses and would welcome more before the deadline day.

He said all views would be carefully considered during December and early January as part of the compilation of a detailed report for the board so it can make its final decisions.

WEBLINK: www.saveourhospitals.felixstowecommunity.co.uk