I, ALONG with hundreds of concerned citizens of York, attended the march to protest at the appalling state of mental health services in this city (The Press, May 16).

I worked for the NHS in mental health for over 30 years and in that time have seen the closure of Claypenny, Whixley, Clifton and Naburn hospitals, along with the mother and baby unit, Q units and day hospitals.

Mental health services have been underfunded and understaffed for many years and this is not just a disaster for the people in this district, but a national disaster.

The population is growing and, as you reported (The Press, May 14), this totally inadequate situation is having a serious impact on students' mental health too.

York Central MP Rachael Maskell is working tirelessly on this issue.

The Tees trust (TEWV), having inherited the mess, seem to be applying a sticking plaster approach to the problem.

Converting Peppermill Court, albeit as a temporary measure, is not a suitable solution, and sending people out of area is horrific.

The people of York and district should not have to wait until 2019 for a new hospital.

Anne Smith, Tamworth Road, Clifton, York