The MP for Carshalton and Wallington handed a giant birthday card to St Helier hospital in honour of the NHS’ 65th birthday.

Tom Brake hand delivered the card on Friday, July 12, and was given a tour of the labour unit by midwife Nicola Shepherd.

Mr Brake has been campaigning against the proposed cuts to St Helier hospital’s A&E, maternity and children’s ward under the Better Services Better Value (BSBV) review.

He said: “I, and many other people who have signed the card, want to celebrate the NHS – one of the country’s greatest achievements. 

“It is also to say thank you to staff and celebrate the very positive experiences that patients have at St Helier.  That goes for me too, as both of my children were born here.”

Midwife Nicola Shepherd said it was a pleasure to welcome Mr Brake and all the staff really appreciated it.

The BSBV review argue their proposals would mean that everyone in south west London, Epsom and the surrounding area will receive the highest quality of care when they need it.

However campaigners, including Tom Brake, criticise BSBV arguing it is a flawed process based on contested assumptions and poor data.