Sally Pavey, part of the rally organising team, said: "We wanted a large crowd but were totally overwhelmed by numbers and ran out of literature, car stickers and balloons. It has been fantastic to see that residents agree so strongly about the need for a new hospital in our area of West Sussex and are prepared to come to the rallies to show it."

She said about a thousand people were present at Horsham and Crawley and they witnessed a large number of youngsters showing their concern and support for a new hospital. A united front was shown by the Liberal Democrats and the Conservatives at both rallies, working together to achieve one aim.

The rallies, held in Horsham's Forum and later in Queen's Square, Crawley, were addressed by a variety of speakers.

They included the campaign organisers Horsham MP Francis Maude and Leader of West Sussex County Council Henry Smith.

But the campaign is cross-party in Horsham and other speakers included the Leader of Horsham District Council Liz Kitchen and leading Lib Dem district councillor and local GP Dr David Skipp.

Other Lib Dems played a key part in the event - making clear that this is not a party political issue but something about which the entire community is united.

The County Times has vigorously supported the need for a new A&E hospital in the area for the past ten years, and editor in chief Gary Shipton also spoke at the packed public event in Horsham.

A full report of the rallies will appear in next week's West Sussex County Times.

Click on the link to watch a video from the rally.
You can visit the SLIDESHOW of Steve Cobb's pictures too.

Click here for a pdf of the campaign support form.

For comprehensive coverage of all the stories making the local news, read Friday's edition of the West Sussex County Times newspaper. Website users who wish to purchase a copy of the County Times newspaper but live outside our circulation area can do so by telephoning 01403 751200 and asking for reception. The cost of the newspaper plus postage in England is £1.53 which can be paid for by credit card. Overseas rates are also available, on request.