MAIDSTONE Hospital is facing another wave of cuts with its A&E department the latest service in the firing line.

Just over a year after decisions to transfer maternity and children’s services to Tunbridge Wells, health chiefs have launched a new cost-cutting review as it attempts to save millions in the coming year.

Talks are at an early stage but nothing is being ruled out with cuts in A&E opening times among the options already considered.

Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust says the review will lead to "modern ways of providing cost-effective, high quality care for patients".

Public consultation is due to start in the autumn.

But Ann Widdecombe, MP for Maidstone and the Weald, fears the review will lead to services in the County Town being "plundered".

She said: "You can’t have an A&E unless it is open all the time. That is the very nature of the department."

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