CAMPAIGNERS gathered in the city centre today in support of the NHS.

A rally, organised by York Labour, began at York Minster before protestors marched to St Helens Square.

Former health secretary and MP Frank Dobson spoke to campaigners about his concerns for the NHS.

Speaking at the event he said: “I’m delighted to be here supporting you for your campaign for our health service.

“It has served me, it has served my parents, my children and my grandchildren. The rich ought to be paying a lot more towards it.”

Holgate councillor and Labour parliamentary candidate for York Outer Fiona Derbyshire said many residents are concerned about the privatisation of the health service following the registration of a new company to manage maintenance services at York Teaching Hospital.

She said: “People are so concerned about the national agenda. This could have a catastrophic impact on a service that's stretched already.

"Labour are looking at returning funding to the NHS through a different economic strategy

"The NHS is a service that everyone relies on and it is something that every civilised country needs.

"We want a win-win situation that protects this asset that has raised health levels across the country. It's urgent, we can't afford to ignore it.”

The march was supported by music from a brass band and campaigners were joined by members of other Labour groups, including the Selby Labour Party and the University of York Labour Club, as well as York Green Party, the Defend Our NHS York group and trade unions.

Cllr Jonny Crawshaw, speaking at the rally, told the crowd that he was moved to campaign for more funding for the health service after his own grandmother was left waiting for an ambulance for five hours after breaking her leg because of pressures on the NHS hospitals and staff.

He said: "I don't blame the nurses or the healthcare assistants or the paramedics, without whose goodwill the NHS would collapse. I blame a Conservative ideology that ultimately says 'why should I pay for you?'

"We are all aware of the perilous state our NHS is in. It's easy to lose sight of the personal impact.

"But under this Government the NHS is in grave danger. Together, we can most definitely save the NHS."

A further meeting organised by York and District Trades Union Council and Defend Our NHS York will take place at Friargate Quaker Meeting House on Tuesday from 7pm to discuss the future of the NHS in York and members of the public are welcome to attend.