Hospital campaigners have staged their first weekly vigil since the lockdown outside Grantham Hospital.

The weekly vigils have taken place every Wednesday since the loss of 24/7 services four years ago until the coronavirus pandemic arrived.

Now, the vigil has renewed focus with the United Lincolnshire Hospitals Trust 'downgrading' the A&E to an Urgent Treatment Centre saying this would allow it to create a covid-19 free space at the hospital and treat more cancer patients.

The vigil followed an earlier protest at the hospital over the issue.

Yesterday's vigil matched the spirit of the times, with it participants being socially-distant from each other.

Special armbands have also been made to highlight those who may be at greater risk from contracting the coronavirus.

Liz Wilson of Fighting 4 Life Lincolnshire says campaigners braved the rain last night for the vigil, which featured many of its regulars, plus some new ones.

She told Nub News: "We all behaved responsibly and social distanced. We received lots of toots and beeps from passing vehicles so it is clear there is still much support for us.

"We are pleased to be back and we will fight to the death. We hear of all sort of services being dispersed from the hospital. It doesn't make us trust ULHT any more. It's clear they are trying to run down the hospital.

"We are going to keep on fighting until the hospital is demolished behind us."

The vigil runs each Wednesday between 5pm and 7pm and those taking part can stay as long or as little as they wish.

The armbands worn by several of yesterday's campaigners have been made by Grantham company Print Bureau Team, who have made other material for the hospital campaigners.

They follow a call from Sue McQuinn who was concerned that vulnerable people who have been isolating may be pout off from joining the various hospital campaigns.

Such armbands, by warning the wearers may be at greater risk, aim to improve safety by deterring people from getting too close to the wearers.

They cost a subsidised £2 with proceeds from their sale going to support the Air Ambulance. Greater donations are appreciated.