IN THE past local people have not had much say in how Crediton Hospital works but this could change, with its future now being more community-led.

This could be a result of changes in how stroke patients are treated - something which has given rise to fears for the future of the hospital, for which many people worked hard to get built about 30 years ago.

Since then, local people have also invested a considerable amount of money in the hospital and there has been a growing amount of protest at any thought of it closing.

That possibility came up at a meeting held at Crediton Fire Station this week, called by Northern, Eastern and Western Devon Clinical Commissioning Group (NEW Devon CCG).

This was one of a series of focus groups being held with members of the public to discuss future plans for stroke service in Devon.

Anyone who read Dr Joe Mays' letter in the Crediton Courier's January 10 issue should remember the background - that NEW Devon CCG wants to develop and improve services for stroke patients, which could mean having one site instead of Crediton and Exmouth (originally Budleigh Salterton) and more support teams visiting people in their homes.

It was felt Crediton Hospital could still be an important part of the community by providing more services.

People wishing to put their views should contact Ann Fugler, Stroke Association, Forde House, Park Five, Harrier Way, Exeter EX2 7HU.

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