A campaign has been launched to rally support for a minor injuries hospital unit in South Woodham Ferrers.

Several groups in the town have already backed the call and the need for the new facility will be highlighted during Community Week from September 27 to October 2.

Local Health Care 2000, made up of members of the medical profession and various community groups, is leading the campaign for the unit.

It believes South Woodham residents are fed up with having to travel to Chelmsford's Broomfield Hospital for treatment to minor injuries and facilities are urgently needed in the town.

Spokeswoman and town councillor Julie Jenkins said: "The campaign is aimed at improving the medical facilities in the town and in the Dengie area.

"Petitions have been placed at doctor's surgery, chemists and dentists to draw on public support.

"At the moment we have about 1,000 signatures."

She added that the group is hoping to provide medical equipment such as a heart monitor and a X-ray machine for the unit.

Supermarket giant Asda is hosting a display on the proposed facility during Community Week.

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