ACTIVISTS calling for greater investment and commitment in the health service amid fears of creeping privatisation have formed a new Swindon-based campaign group.

The Keep Our NHS Public movement has been gathering pace in recent months and was at the heart of a large scale demonstration in London last month - but until now there was no Swindon branch.

That has now changed and the founders are looking for like-minded people to join them in their cause.

The group will come together on Wednesday, April 26, for an initial planning meeting.

An open invitation has been issued to anyone interested in getting involved to come along - the meeting will take place at the Redhouse Community Centre on Frankel Avenue from 7.45pm.

Samantha Wathen, co-founder of the Swindon branch of Keep Our NHS Public, said: "The purpose of the meeting will be to establish a group which responds to the issues surrounding the health service around Swindon.

"After attending the march to save our NHS last month we were inspired by the need to join forces at a local level in order to tackle a national need.

"Our group will aim to respond by opposing local cuts and privatisation and participate in some national events. No previous campaigning experience is necessary, just a willingness to be involved and the ability to give whatever time you can manage.

"We welcome all sections of the community, and a background in the health service or politics is not necessary, this is everybody's NHS, and we all need to stand up for it.

"We very much look forward to seeing you there."