RYEDALE councillors gave their official backing to the campaign to save Malton maternity unit.

Members were united in their opposition to plans by NHS trust bosses to close the wing and encourage women to have their babies at home or in Scarborough or York hospitals.

The vote comes just dates before the final public meeting in a public consultation into the plans, which will draw to a close on March 18.

Leading the fight is Norton councillor, Howard Keal who rallied the chamber at the meeting held last night (Thursday, March 8).

Speaking at the gathering, he said: "It's consultation crunch time and there couldn't be a better time to send a strong message from Ryedale and the people we represent. Mums want choice and many of these women want the choice of being able to give birth in a safe home-from-home' environment of Malton Hospital."

Speaking in favour of the move was fellow councillor, David Cussons who sees the threat to the maternity unit as a slippery slope for the rest of the hospital.

He added: "They cut back all the services at Kirkbymoorside hospital while telling us they would never close the hospital. Now it is gone and if we don't show our opposition to the trust's plans, Malton will be next."

The final public meeting held to discuss the future of maternity services will be held at Ryedale House on Monday, March 12 at 6.30pm.