A LEADING health boss has praised campaigners who passionately fought to save Maryport Hospital from closure.

Three years ago a mammoth fight was launched, led by staunch supporters of the cottage hospital, as it was revealed it was one of several across the county under threat of closure.

And although the overnight beds have been removed from the hospital, campaigners have won another battle as a newly-refurbished facility has now been officially opened.

Bill Barnes, the man who led the huge SOB (Save Our Beds) campaign, said that almost the entire community of Maryport and the surrounding areas backed the fight.

And at the hospital opening, Professor John Howarth, deputy chief executive of the North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust, told guests that the refurbishment may not have been carried out if it weren’t for that fight.

“If it weren’t for the SOB campaign, including the Maryport Alliance, Entra and the League of Friends, I don’t think the hospital would be here as it is,” he said. “The trust have all really fought for Maryport, and we’ve been given a great outcome.”

Victoria Cottage Hospital now boasts a transfusion suite with fully reclining chairs, which can accommodate five patients at a time to receive intravenous antibiotics and blood transfusions amongst other treatments.

Two clinical rooms for dressings, bladder scanning and other minor clinical interventions have also been opened, as well as a new rehab centre fully equipped with a well-established team and with gym facilities.

Mr Barnes said his only regret was that “the fantastic new facilities” could not have been run as well as, rather than instead of, overnight beds. He said the new services were a huge boost to the town and to him personally.

“I have weekly treatments,” he said. “If it wasn’t for Maryport Hospital I would have to travel to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle every Monday.”

Workington MP Sue Hayman, who officially opened the new facility,. She said: “We’re all disappointed with the decision to take the beds out, and people were concerned the hospital would be closed. It’s just really good to see this investment into the hospital and see more facilities available to people on their doorstep.”

League of Friends chairman Joan Risely added: “The refurbishment has been done very sympathetically, and it looks very good and welcoming.

“We’re still disappointed the beds aren’t here, but As it was thought the hospital would close, we’re pleased that people can still come here, and hopefully amenities will continue to increase.”