The patients, who "gatecrashed" the ceremony, listened to consultant Paul Cool explain the work of the new tumour unit - one of only five in the country - and watched North Shropshire MP Owen Paterson unveil a plaque to mark the occasion before interrupting the proceedings.

They were led by Emma Suddaby who said: "I think everyone wants to know exactly what is going to happen to us as rheumatoid arthritis sufferers. We are very worried about our future care"

Some said the regular medical and nursing care they had received over the years was excellent. There was also a hotline to the ward which they could use when at home.

Others expressed their "dismay and anger" over the closure of the Ercall ward in which the new unit is situated.

The patients were invited to a near-by lounge where they met with hospital officials including David Sear, chairman of the trust, Professor McCall, medical director, and Vicky Morris, nursing director, and were promised that a special meeting with the patients will be organised as soon as possible.

READ THE FULL STORY only in this week's Advertizer