Bosses from the Success Regime - set up to transform health services in Cumbria- have been grilled by Penrith residents over the closure of some beds at their community hospital.

Under the proposals, Penrith Hospital would lose two of its inpatient beds as health chiefs look to reorganise the role of community hospitals.

Concerned members of the public gathered today in the town's Methodist Church to question decision-makers about the plans.

Several of them raised concerns about losing those beds, saying it would be a further blow to the rural area following the closures of care homes.

Others wanted more clarification on the concept of "integrated care communities" which bosses say will see more people cared for in their own homes and leave more power with local communities.

See tomorrow's News & Star for more details