PROTESTERS marched in Redbridge today (Saturday) against plans to close the borough's only A&E department.

People opposed to proposals to shut the service at King George Hospital, in Ilford, met at Little Heath Green, opposite Redbridge College, at 1pm before walking to Redbridge Town Hall - where speeches were made by community and faith leaders.

The plan has faced fierce opposition from residents across the borough ever since it was first put forward by Health for North East London (HNEL) which suggested that resources should instead be concentrated at Whipps Cross Hospital in Leytonstone and Queen's Hospital in Romford.

Thousands of people gave their views on the scheme during a public consultation, which ended in March.

HFNEL has told the Guardian that the plans would mean health services in the borough are better organised and would allow patients to receive more senior clinical imput earlier in their treatment.

It also said most patients who currently use King George's A&E department would continue being able to receive treatment at the hospital's Urgent Care Centre.

For more information visit: healthfornel.nhs.uk