It would be impossible for me to write to each and every one of the Keep Worthing and Southlands Hospitals (Kwash) campaigners, indeed it would be impossible to complete a list of names of volunteers and so I am writing this open letter.

The campaign has received assistance from so many people, so many businesses, clinicians and organisations that the whole experience has been humbling and at the same time uplifting.

I am so proud of the residents of Worthing and those in the hospital catchment area.

The campaign and its campaigners have never faltered, the unselfish commitment, the dedication and the personal sacrifices made by so many have been truly magnificent. Every one of you can hold your head up high.

We must now wait until January to find out what "options"

the PCT will finally consider and we all hope and pray that emerging from the consultation will be an option that addresses all of our concerns.

We can and will accept change but none of us can accept the downgrading of our hospital services.

The people of Worthing need and deserve them.

The first phase of the battle is now over, the PCT knows how hard we have fought to protect our hospital and I think is in no doubt about how we will fight in the future if that proves necessary. The campaign is in suspended animation but keep your banners and posters dry until the final outcome is announced.

  • Tom Wye, chairman, Kwash, Ashacre Lane, Worthing