Campaigners fighting to ‘save the NHS’ from cuts and privatisation will take to the streets in Sidmouth tomorrow (Saturday).

The protest in Market Place, which is being co-ordinated by the 38 Degrees group, will be one of hundreds of other similar events across the country.

Campaigners will be out from 11am and will be asking residents to sign a petition urging all candidates in May’s General Election to protect the NHS.

Ottery St Mary resident and 38 Degrees member, Trevor Leahong said: “We all need the NHS at our best and worst moments in life.

“That’s why I’ll be going out this Saturday to spread the word about our campaign and to collect signatures on our local petition.

“East Devon’s day of action will show our MP candidates that if they want to sell off or run down our NHS, they’ll have a fight on their hands.”

The campaign group says more than 800 people in East Devon have already signed the petition.

David Babbs, executive director of 38 Degrees, said: “This day of action should send a clear message to politicians - you’re being watched by millions of us fighting to protect our NHS.”

The group’s petition can be found at www.38degrees.org.uk/nhs.