TORY MP for the town, Peter Luff responded to a South Worcestershire Primary Care Trust (PCT) consultation by slating all its recommendations for cutbacks.

The Trust has proposed to shift the costs for three important services to Worcestershire County Council social services department or end the services, to reduce sexual health provision and to end GP practice based counselling.

Mr Luff claims it proposes reductions in health visiting, the minor injuries unit at Evesham and in pulmonary rehabilitation.

His letter to the Trust states: "I freely acknowledge the very real pressures under which the PCT has been placed by the Government both to reduce its deficit and to meet the targets imposed on it.

"Nevertheless, I still believe it is the job of the local health service to deliver a pattern of healthcare that reflects the needs and wishes of the local community and it is against this reality that your proposed changes must be judged."

He urged the Trust to go back to central Government and demand additional resources.