Rolling Stone joins health march

Keith Richards led the 15,000-strong crowd

Rolling Stone Keith Richards has marched with campaigners protesting against possible Sussex hospital cuts.

About 15,000 people joined the rock star on the walk through Chichester to oppose plans which could see St Richard's Hospital downgraded.

The 63-year-old arrived at the demonstration dressed in a long black leather coat, trilby and sunglasses.

Under NHS restructuring, only one of three West Sussex hospitals will remain a major general hospital.

West Sussex has hospitals in Worthing, Haywards Heath, and Chichester. Consultation on NHS restructuring in the county is in its final weeks.

'Vital local amenity'

Actors Christopher Timothy and Patricia Routledge also attended the march.

The Rolling Stones' guitarist has his main home in Connecticut, USA, but has owned Redlands in West Wittering, since the 1960s.

A spokeswoman for the 63-year-old said: "Keith Richards is a long-standing member of the West Wittering community and is pleased to lend his support to local efforts to save St Richard's Hospital.

"It is a vital local amenity for not only residents but for visitors and holidaymakers.

"A walk is planned to raise awareness and public support for the hospital."

On 13 October, 14,000 campaigners turned out for a demonstration in Haywards Heath.