SIR — The proposal to close six stroke beds at Williton Hospital, as reported in the Free Press, has understandably been greeted with dismay by local residents, who feel the hospital provides an excellent service to the community.

It is particularly important that people who have suffered strokes or have other long-term chronic ailments requiring hospital-based care are able to remain in their home area and receive regular visits from friends and family.

As the only alternatives are the community hospital in South Petherton or taking up an acute bed in Musgrove Park, such patients risk becoming cut off from their home environment, with consequent negative impact on their recovery and increased stress for the family.

It is also likely to be less cost-effective for the NHS in the long run.

This was discussed at a recent meeting of the West Somerset branch of the Green Party and we agreed to support efforts to keep these beds open and keep services local.

We urge members of the public to sign a petition to this effect at the Parish Council Rooms in Williton.

Cherry Bird,

West Somerset Green Party.