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FOLKESTONE HOSPITAL FACING CASH CRISIS

Folkestone's Royal Victoria Hospital is bracing itself for job cuts and a reduction in beds.

The East Kent Hospitals NHS Trust  which is responsible for hospitals in Canterbury, Margate, Ashford, Dover and Folkestone, has predicted that NHS reforms could push it into the red by up to £35m next year unless substantial savings are made.

Damian Green, the local MP for Ashford, said rumours "sweeping" the town were that job cuts could amount to as much as 10%.

Trust Chairman Chief executive David Astley said it was "facing a significant financial challenge in the next year".

He said the trust would have to look at every aspect of its operation so that it could work in a better and more efficient way, while still enhancing and protecting patient care.