THE PATIENTS

Shoppers in the town centre reacted with anger to the news.

Lynn Carter, of Hardinge Road, said: “I had an anaphylactic shock about four years ago and Ashford’s A&E was vital.

“I couldn’t breathe and I could have died – it saved my life.

“It would not be sensible to lose it and Canterbury is a long way to go.”

Alf Ruane, who lives in south Ashford, said: “It is crucial.

“Travelling to Canterbury is virtually impossible, especially at rush hour.

“It is a really needed service and the location in Ashford is perfect for it.”

Peter Bell, of Aldington, said: “I am shocked. The A&E is always busy and when I went there with my grandson we sat there for four hours.

“I would have thought Ashford is the best place for it with the motorway on its doorstep.

“It seems a crazy idea as there is no quick way to Canterbury.”

Heather Harden, who lives in Kennington, said: “It is not a very good idea. I know that people in Canterbury are pleased, but it has just swapped the problem around and now Ashford could lose its A&E.

“It is not easy to get to Canterbury.”

Edward Beaney, of Farrow Court, Stanhope, said: “Ashford is getting bigger and bigger and the extra travel would not be ideal. It is such a big town now and it needs it own A&E – there will soon be more people needing it. People could die.”

Glynis Miles, who lives off Qunatock Drive, said: “It would be a great loss as it is desperately needed in Ashford.

“In the last two years, I have had a lot of experience with my husband in A&E as he has been ill.

“It is a long way to go to Canterbury and it could be a life or death situation.”

What do you think? Write to Kentish Express, Unit 4, Park Mall Shopping Centre Ashford, TN24 8RY or email kentishexpress@ thekmgroup.co.uk