Sick Kids petition gathers 23,000 signatures

THE number of people who have signed a petition in support of the Sick Kids hospital has reached 23,000.

The news follows public health minister Shona Robison's announcement that the hospital will keep neurology services.

An announcement is still due on children's cancer and all signatures in support of keeping services in Edinburgh will be passed to Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon.

Yesterday's announcement on neurology has been welcomed by MSPs. SNP Lothians MSP Shirley-Anne Somerville said: "This is great news and a real tribute to all those who have campaigned to keep neurological services in the city.

"The doctors and staff at Sick Kids are some of the best in the world. The Government's decision will be a great relief to many who were concerned about the future of services at the Sick Kids."

Liberal Democrat MSP Margaret Smith said: "This is very welcome news, and I am glad that the Government have listened to the experts and decided not to centralise these services."