NHS campaigners delivered a petition signed by more than 1,700 people to candidates standing in the upcoming General Election prior to the hustings in Haddenham, on Sunday.

The move, by members of the 38 Degrees campaign group, followed a day of action held in Ely’s Market Place.

The petition was handed over by Jane Howell, from Haddenham, and other members of 38 Degrees.

It called on each parliamentary candidate to agree to do everything they can to protect the NHS from funding squeezes, privatisation, and the TTIP trade deal if they’re elected.

Ms Howell, who helped to organise the event, said: “Collecting signatures on Saturday was easy. It was very heart warming that so many people came to sign, wanting to give their support to the NHS, and wanting to let their new MP know that privatisation is totally unacceptable.”

David Babbs, executive director of 38 Degrees said: “We’re sending a clear message to our local MP candidates: you’re being watched by hundreds us, and we all want you to protect the NHS.

“Sunday’s petition delivery event is all about the people of South East Cambridgeshire telling our next MPs exactly what we want for our NHS.”