Fans set to rally for hospital

Friday 16th October 2009, 11:09AM BST.

PRH protest Bosses at AFC Telford United hope to net a few extra fans from tomorrow’s SOS rally for Princess Royal Hospital – by offering a discount on admission for the game later that day.

A protest has been planned at the New Bucks Head against plans to downgrade the Telford hospital by moving key accident & emergency and paediatric services to Shrewsbury.

Today AFC Telford officials revealed everyone attending the event, which starts at 12 noon, will be given a £1 discount on entry for the match against Southport.

It means that children under 16 attending the rally will get into the match free.

The gates for the rally open at 11.30am, and the gates for the game will open at 1.30pm. Ê

Telford & Wrekin Council leader, Councillor Andrew Eade said: “The community has really taken up this campaign and everyone is eager to show how united people are in their opposition to proposals to downgrade our hospital.

“As AFC Telford United are very much a club that has grown out of the community, it’s no surprise they have wanted to support and help with the campaign.

“I hope this incentive will help persuade more people to come along to both the rally and the game, and that the club gains a few new fans into the bargain.”

The rally will run until around 1pm and will be free to enter.

There is free car parking at the New Bucks Head stadium for the rally off Haybridge Road.