Plymouth Labour Party celebrated the 60th anniversary of the creation of the NHS at a special event on Saturday 5 July in Stonehouse. Joined by former minister, Lord George Foulkes, local MP Linda Gilroy and aspiring MP, Luke Pollard, spoke about the success of the NHS at 60 and the contribution of NHS staff to Plymouth. 50 people from across Plymouth were invited to celebration party that included cutting of a 60th birthday cake for the NHS.

Founded on 5 July 1948 by a Labour Government the NHS celebrates sixty years of continuous operation that has helped save the lives of millions providing healthcare on the basis of healthcare free at the point of delivery.

Lord Foulkes, Linda Gilroy and Luke Pollard spoke about the contribution of the NHS to Plymouth over sixty years, the challenges it faces now and the importance of not diluting the principles that healthcare should be free at the point of delivery in this and successive governments.

Linda Gilroy, MP for Plymouth Sutton said: “Like most people I have had cause to appreciate the NHS for personal reasons—indeed it saved my life when the NHS itself was only six years old and I was even younger! However, Britain today is very different from Britain 60 years ago, and that is why the Government is modernizing the health service to ensure that it can continue to meet our needs whilst remaining free for all at the point of delivery”.

Luke Pollard, Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for South West Devon, said:  “Plymouth owes a real debt of gratitude to the NHS for its service to the City over the last sixty years. This anniversary is a celebration of the tireless dedication of NHS staff to the local community they service with distinction. NHS staff give their all for our community each day and it is right that their hard work and effort is celebrated as the NHS turns 60.”

Lord George Foulkes said: “it’s a real privilege to come back to Plymouth and speak at the 60th anniversary celebrations. Many people of my generation remember their parents telling them just how expensive healthcare was before the NHS and how the poor were always left out. The past sixty years has revolutionised the nation’s health and it is fitting that we celebrate the lasting achievements of the NHS’ founders and the work of local NHS staff without whom I know I would probably not be here today.”

7 July 2007