by Mary Graham

mgraham@thekmgroup.co.uk

Seventeen miles have been covered on foot by a campaigner in protest at changes to maternity services in Maidstone.

Helen Grant, the Conservative prospective parliamentary candidate for Maidstone and the Weald, walked with a pram between Maidstone and Pembury Hospitals.

The route was chosen to highlight the extra distances women will travel from 2011 onwards when a full maternity service is provided at the new Pembury hospital, leaving just a birthing unit in Maidstone.

The birthing unit would not be able to deal with complications in labour, such as a woman needing an epidural or Cesarean section.

Since plans were announced by the Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust, they have been opposed. Political campaigns by Mrs Grant and her Lib Dem counterpart, Peter Carroll, have been set up and a group called MASH - Maidstone Action for Services in Hospital are also calling for decision to be reversed.

Mrs Grant set off on Sunday at 9am from Maidstone Hospital, waved off by former BBC South East Today newsreader, Geoff Clarke and a convoy of lorries driven by members of Marden business forum, who have leant their support, set off in advance.

Speaking after the walk, Mrs Grant, said: "I’ve got stiff legs, sore feet and a few blisters, but that is nothing compared with the stress, pain and potential threats that will be endured by Maidstone Mums having to travel this journey whilst in a dangerous stage of labour. I hope the Pram Push has served to highlight the issue and raise public awareness.

"We must now continue to apply pressure and seek a review of the decision by the trust."