Hundreds attend mental health ward victory rally

Hundreds of local residents joined local MP Tim Farron at Abbot Hall Park today to celebrate this week's victory in the fight for the Kentmere mental health ward.

Tim had originally planned a protest march against the closure of the ward, which became a victory rally in light of Thursday's decision. Hundreds of local people turned up to celebrate the Trust's announcement and to show support for local mental health services.

On Thursday the Partnership Trust's board voted to keep the Kentmere Ward open, following a vigorous campaign by local residents. Over 7000 local residents signed Tim's petition against the closure of the ward.

Tim said: "I am so proud of our community standing together to defend mental health services. When we face challenges like this I know I can count on local people to work as one to fight for our area.

"Thousands of local people backed this campaign, and it was great to be able to thank so many of them at today's rally. This successful campaign is down to the determination of us all to protect our hospital.

"Mental health services are absolutely vital, and this week's news will be a massive relief for users of these services as well as for their friends and family.

"Thank you also to South Lakes MIND, the Westmorland Gazette and all the other local organisations which fought to make this campaign a success."