The future of a community hospital is assured, says an NHS leader, but it may or may not have beds.

Sir Neil McKay, chairman of the Success Regime, made the comments after visiting Wigton Hospital yesterday. It followed a public meeting with the community in the town's Market Hall building

Leaders of the Government-appointed Success Regime - tasked with transforming healthcare in Cumbria - were able to hear first-hand the concerns of residents, staff and patients affected by the potential closure of beds at one cottage hospital.

The Success Regime's preferred option is to close beds at some of the area's community hospitals - most likely Wigton, Alston and Maryport, plus four at Penrith - and consolidate a smaller number across fewer sites. More patients would be cared for at home.

The meeting, which allowed members of the public the chance to ask questions directly of Mr McKay and his team, was chaired by Lord Roger Liddle, Wigton's representative on Cumbria County Council.

"From my point of view I'm asking why on earth is this change happening if it's not going to save money," he said.

"Everybody thinks that Wigton Hospital provides an excellent service so why ruin something that is good?"

Lord Liddle said points about how the trust pays modest rent and has spent money recently modernising the building were also raised during the meeting.

Speaking after his visit, Mr McKay said: "As part of the Success Regime we're asking the question as to whether or not all of the community hospitals need all of the beds they have.

"Wigton community hospital does have a future, but the question is does it continue to have beds or not?

"There are 12 beds open here and it's clear the patients very much appreciate the care they receive."

Mr McKay said the health authorities are looking to develop a concept known as "integrated care" which brings all services together and has worked in other areas of the country, including a pocket of south Cumbria.

Wigton Hospital League of Friends has come up with a number of alternative proposals, including increasing the number of beds but utilising some for social care.

Mr McKay said the Success Regime would be speaking with the group - and a similar one at Alston - about their ideas.

The group then travelled to Alston yesterday afternoon for a similar event.