I HAVE been a general practitioner in this town for the last 24 years and during this time I have seen the development of both obstetrics and paediatrics.

When I came to Bury there was only one paediatrician and at one stage there were five full-time consultant paediatricians at Fairfield. There was originally only two gynaecologists, and now there are four.

The standard of care given has been excellent and, being on our doorstep, Fairfield has benefited not only my patients from East Ward but the whole of Bury. As a GP I do not agree with moving these departments many miles away, out of easy reach of patients. We have a fully functioning district general hospital which works well, with excellent consultant services in every department.

I, and my son, were both present on the march into Bury two weeks ago supporting the continuity of our local services. On that march I met two of my elderly patients, in their late seventies and with walking sticks, yet still able to participate in the demonstration. That's how strong the feeling is throughout the generations in Bury.

Mr David Chaytor MP said in his speech at the gathering in Kay Gardens that it may take another march, all the way to Manchester. I acknowledge that the proposals for change have been postponed until next summer, but if a march to Manchester is what it takes to finally reject this plan, then my family, many members of the practice at Huntley Mount Medical Centre and, I am sure, many of my patients will march with him.

Dr A. DEMETRIOU

homeopathis physician.