HUNDREDS of Huddersfield people have objected to plans to shake up hospital services.

And today campaigners were out on the streets again, collecting more signatures against the proposals.

Petitions have been launched across the town to condemn proposals to shift children's, women's and surgical services to the Calderdale Royal Hospital in Halifax.

Hundreds of angry residents have already made their mark by signing petitions.

Today campaigners led by Dr Jackie Grunsell, a GP at Paddock and Netherton surgeries, hit Huddersfield.

The 33-year-old doctor and supporters of the pressure group she has set up - Save Our NHS - were in the town centre taking their message to the public.

Dr Grunsell, said: "We want our message to be taken seriously. That is why we are in the town asking people to support us.

"Since I launched the campaign I have had a great reception from people. The only people who have not been supportive are from the health trust."

Lindley councillor Christine Stansfield was busy collecting signatures outside Huddersfield Royal Infirmary yesterday.

The Liberal Democrat campaign - Save Our Health Services - has already received the backing of hundreds of people.

Clr Stansfield said: "Huddersfield is a thriving, growing town - but unfortunately its health provision is going to be downgraded to a clinic.

"To ask people from the Colne and Holme valleys to travel to Halifax is unacceptable.

"We feel we have had no say in this at all."

Oakes pensioner Barbara Farrand has also mounted a campaign to save services at the Infirmary.

Mrs Farrand, 65, of Burniston Drive, has collected more than 900 signatures in just two weeks.

The grandmother has received support from local businesses, who have offered to gather signatures on her behalf.

The Bungalow Fisheries, New Hey Road at Oakes, Burniston Drive newsagents, and the Head of Steam pub in the town centre are some of those who have come on board.

Mrs Farrand said: "I am campaigning mainly about surgery being moved to Halifax and the effect this is going to have on pensioners.

"People expect to travel for brain or heart surgery, but not for basic surgery. It should be here in Huddersfield."

* After launching the pressure group, Dr Grunsell was inundated with phone calls from supporters.

However, her mobile phone was stolen and she lost all the callers' numbers.

She said: "I haven't been able to call people back who rang in response to my appeal. I'd really like them to get in touch."

To contact her, ring 01484 461730 or 07739 739704.