PROTESTERS opposing a controversial shake-up at Heatherwood Hospital marched up Ascot High Street to present NHS bosses with a petition of 23,000 signatures.

The group - comprising people from across Berkshire - processed from car park six on Saturday down to the hospital, led by an Olympic Torch and slow-beating drum before handing over the paper petition - which addresses the ongoing Shaping the Future consultation.

Terry Pearce, chairman of Defend Our Community Services (DOCS) - one of the groups in the Save Heatherwood Hospital campaign - said: "We were very pleased and the day went well. People from a range of local groups, young and old, political, non-political, churches, all united with one aim to save Heatherwood Hospital and all its services."

The proposals are part of officials' Shaping the Future document and they are carrying out a public consultation until January 31, including meetings.

To find out more, pick up a copy of the December 13 edition of the Bracknell or Ascot News, out now.

* Did you attend the march? What do you think of the proposals? Comment below or email news@bracknellnews.co.uk