A statement on behalf of Preston City Council and Lancashire County Council said: “We are extremely concerned by the on-going closure of the A&E department at Chorley and South Ribble Hospital and are pressing for it to be re-opened as soon as qualified doctors can be recruited.



“We want to see a clear action plan detailing what will be done to re-open the department and a more definite timescale for when this will be done, and would call on the government to ensure that there is a supply of qualified doctors available.

“We also want answers to the questions many people are asking about what the future holds for both Chorley and South Ribble and Preston hospitals.

“If there is any consideration being given to closing the A&E service at the Chorley site permanently then it is important the Lancashire Teaching Hospitals Trust is upfront and outlines their plans for what the future could hold so we, and our residents, can provide our input.

“It is our view that the A&E service must ensure residents get the best care possible in a timely manner.”