A GROUP of campaigners who have fought to keep essential services at Withybush Hospital have been recognised by Haverfordwest Town Council for their years of work.

David and Elaine Williams, Heather Scammell, and Chris and Ann Doran are the recipients of the 2018 Haverfordwest Citizens Award.

The group has fought plans to remove services from Pembrokeshire’s general hospital for 13 years.

Haverfordwest’s new mayor, Cllr Sue Murray, presented the award to Heather Scammell at the mayor-making ceremony on Thursday, May 17.

Cllr Murray said: “They attend nearly every health board meeting, Community Health Council meeting and community events.

“They have done this at their own expense and have spent hours and hours poring over documents and figures.”

Cllr Murray added: “They are totally dedicated to what they believe in: the saving of Withybush and its services.”

David Williams said the award had come as a surprise to him and his fellow campaigners.

“We were totally surprised and astounded,” he said.

We would like to thank the council for giving us this award.”

The campaigners tragically lost Ann Doran to a short illness last year, and her award has been presented posthumously.

The group will visit Haverfordwest mayor’s parlour in the near future to meet the mayor for a formal presentation ceremony.