COMPLAINTS from patients who have not received a consultation document proposing radical changes to close five wards at Halton Hospital has led to an emergency print run.

Health chiefs are publishing 20,000 extra copies and pledged to deliver them by yesterday, Tuesday.

"Some members of the public in Runcorn have said they have not received a copy," said Allan Massey, chair of North Cheshire Hospitals NHS Trust.

"We were clear from the outset that we were not going to be able to guarantee delivery to every home."

More than 95,000 copies have been distributed to residents throughout Halton and Warrington, he said.

Incensed patients claim it is too late to receive the detailed proposals as the last public meeting was held on Monday.

"I've been to all the public meetings and there has been a very poor attendance," said one disgruntled man. "I believe 30 per cent of Runcorn haven't received the consultation document."

Hospital bosses say there are no longer enough staff, cash or resources to fund two 24-hour sites. A new £8.5m critical care unit at Warrington and £6.5m expansion of additional services on both sites is the only viable solution, they claim.

A hotline on 01925-662139 has been set up for people to request a consultation summary. Residents have until June 30 to comment. More public meetings will be arranged if there is sufficient demand.