LIPHOOK GP Dr Barbara Rushton has spoken out over fears that The Chase hospital, in Bordon, could be closed as result of the review into its operation being carried out by NHS managers in Hampshire.

Last week, The Herald reported on fears among councillors and some health officials that the hospital could be closed because too many beds lie unoccupied, despite a strong need for certain types of community care across East Hampshire.

Dr Ruston told The Herald: "Most of the time The Chase is half empty, with less than 50 per cent usage.

"It is a good facility, but under utilised and I can't bear that much waste."

The Hampshire Patient Care Trust is carrying out a review of the situation and will meet in December to decide on the hospital's future.

Full story - see this week's Liphook Herald.