CAMPAIGNERS opposed to the proposed cuts at the Alex are invited to take part in a candlelit vigil.

The symbolic protest, which is being organised through the www.savethealex website, will take place at the hospital on December 15 from 4pm.

Supporters should bring a candle as a sign of hope that health chiefs will see the light and scrap plans to downgrade the Alex.

Campaign organiser Neal Stote said: "If you cannot join us but pass the hospital in your car, please blast your horn as a sign of support."

And residents are urged to join a protest march on January 7.

The march was originally planned to go from Redditch Town Hall to the Alex but instead will head to Osprey House on Prospect Hill - home of the Strategic Health Authority.

Mr Stote is appealing for financial help with the cost of printing campaign posters and anyone willing to help can contact him through the website.

Meanwhile, Mr Stote has launched an attack on the Alex's fundraising body, the League of Friends.

"In the past, the Friends have done great things for the hospital but in the Alex's hour of need, they appear helpless to act because of 'rules' and they will not be running their own campaign against the cuts."

But Friends spokesman Colin Kershaw said: "As a voluntary organisation within the hospital, in line with the constitution of all League of Friends groups, we do not get involved with any politics to do with the hospital.

''We exist for charitable reasons - to raise money and care for the staff and patients."