Decision day for Cumbrian health services

Councillors are meeting today to discuss the future of health services in Cumbria.

It comes two weeks after health bosses announced inpatient beds at three cottage hospitals will close.

Last week Cumbria County Council leader Stewart Young said the loss of beds in Alston, Wigton and Maryport should be halted until alternative solutions are in place and fully funded.

Now Cumbria County Council's health scrutiny committee will decide whether to accept or reject the decision and is also being urged to oppose plans to treat seriously sick children in Carlisle rather than west Cumbria.

The panel of district and county councillors has the power to refer the matter to Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt.