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It would be the second time the health authorities have faced the possibility of legal action against hospital reorganisation after the failed Save Kidderminster Hospital attempt in 1998 to force a judicial review of the plans.

Mr Oborski said the district council's chief executive office had this week sought out an appropriate lawyer because "we are looking for a fast opinion as a matter of urgency."

"A lawyer has been identified and we would hope to have the papers with him straight after the council meeting."

The move comes as Health Concern councillors, the dominant group on Wyre Forest District Council, watch with mounting alarm the dismantling of services long before the original plan.

The latest blow came with the decision to close the IT unit leading to campaign warnings of a crisis in intensive care in the county because of what they claim is lack of adequate provision at Ronkswood Hospital.

The closure with plans for moving other major services this month has sparked a stepped up publicity drive jointly by Kidderminster Hospital Campaign and Health Concern leaders.

Announcing a new car sticker scheme, district council chairman and Health Concern councillor John Gordon said: "We want everyone across Wyre Forest to display our stickers in cars and windows.

"We urge everyone to stand up and be counted."