Caterham Hospice to close

Caterham's hospice is set to shut after 47 years at the heart of the town.

Marie Curie Cancer Care's decision to shut the Harestone Drive site, where 65 staff are employed, in around March has sparked an outcry.

The charity says its plans, which are out for consultation, are to the emphasis on caring for patients in their own homes.

But community leaders say they suspect the real motive is cost-cutting.

Dr Joe McGilligan chairs the East Surrey Commissioning Group - a partnership of 20 GPs' practises - said: "I'm extremely disappointed that they are intending closure when we were looking to see the service there maintained and improved.

"I think they are trying to save money because of the credit crunch.

"That's the only reason I can think of. I can't see any advantage in doing this."

Warlingham East district councillor Ashley Burridge said: "It's very sad.

"Thousands of people spent their final days in the hospice so many residents will have a strong emotional attachment to the place.

"There will naturally be a lot of anxiety over this news."

And East Surrey MP Peter Ainsworth said: "I very much regret Marie Curie's decision to sever its long-standing ties with Caterham.

"I'm concerned that ending the specialist palliative care service, which has been of so much benefit to local families over the years, will be a retrograde step.

"Marie Curie needs to do a great deal more to convince local cancer sufferers and families that their plans are genuinely in the interests of our community."

But the charity's spokeswoman Rachael McCormack denied the move was any sort of cost-cutting venture.

She said: "Our aim is to double the number of Marie Curie nurses working in the local community.

" This consultation is about delivering the best possible package of care that meets the needs of local people with a terminal illness."

*The hospice is holding its annual Lights to Remember service on Sunday (7).

Taking place at St John's Church in Clareville Road, Caterham from 4pm, it enables people to remember loved ones who have passed away by placing a message on a Christmas tree.

Vicar Rev Jerry Garton will lead the service, and among professional musicians performing will be saxophonist Susie Gee and singer Stephanie Lauryn.

Ring 01883 832648 for more details.