As an increasing number of residents speak out in support of St Peter's Hospital following news of department closures, one resident looks back on her experiences at the Maldon facility.

Residents have reacted to a decision to suspend inpatient services St Peter's Hospital this winter, as the NHS says the Maldon facility has "deteriorated" in recent years.

The Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust's announcement in August prompted Maldon District Council Leader Richard Siddall to say he was "completely dismayed" at the decision.

Janet Mayes writes...

The historic St Peter's hospital and fine churches are etched on the skyline of Maldon, the town I love and was born in.

Yesterday, I drove in heavy traffic from South Woodham Ferrers and, nearing Maldon, reflected on how it had changed.

Now, swarms of school children converge from Fambridge Road to all the new builds in this once countryside area. How do their parents feel about moving here and facing the possibility of losing our hospital?

It is not only these new people who will lose out if the maternity ward and other units are closed, think of all those in the surrounding villages - generations of them born in the maternity ward. Just how many thousands?

How many heavily pregnant women were relieved to go through St Peter's gates to the maternity wing, into a warm and caring unit? I know I was.

I was nursed by a lady who lived near my parents in Maldon - a great comfort for a new mum. My only complaint: the clock in the tower struck all night long!

A few years ago, a knowledgeable person told me that when the clock had broken and wasn't repaired, it was the beginning of the end. Just what was being thought of then, I wonder?

Imagine if it closed - being in labour and urgently trying to leave a gridlocked Maldon as the contractions increase, on treacherous roads. It's the same whether you choose to go to Broomfield or Colchester General hospital.

Many clinics, consultations, classes, and blood tests at the hospital have helped patients, who could walk to St Peter's or use public transport. There were once several wards with a homely atmosphere, including one that was furnished with a wooden dresser and floral tablecloth.

How can the powers that be delete this fine historic building?

Okay, it needs a refurb, but what doesn't in the town?

- Janet Mayes, Resident

If you would like to have your say over this or any other local issues, submit a Reader's Letter.

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