TODAY'S trip down Helensburgh's memory lane sees us recall the outrage which greeted news of major NHS service cuts in Helensburgh 15 years ago this week.
Here's how we reported the news in the Advertiser on June 10, 2004...
* * * * * * * * * *
THE VICTORIA Infirmary and the Jeanie Deans Unit face the chop in plans unveiled by the NHS.
The worst fears were realised as health chiefs sharpened their axe again with their Clinical Strategy Review announced last week.
Board members voted in favour of taking the document forward for public consultation.
It sparked outrage, with MSP Jackie Baillie leading the chorus of anger by accusing the health board of ‘breathtaking arrogance’.
The key proposals include ‘consolidated treatment services for older people’ in Inverclyde, Lomond and Renfrewshire.
The document said: “As part of this, the Victoria Infirmary in Helensburgh (29 geriatric long stay and six GP beds) and Dumbarton Joint Hospital (29 geriatric long stay and 12 dementia patients) will close and the services will be transferred to the community and/or to the Vale of Leven Hospital, as appropriate.”
READ MORE: From the Archives: How rugby club's dads won 2004 'generation game'It says ‘supporting services will be provided in the community’.
The changes would mean many of the 200 beds at the Vale of Leven Hospital would be taken up by care for the elderly with more people having to travel to the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here