Ysbyty Dolgellau, Gwynedd, bed cut worry
Concerns have been raised after the number of beds at Ysbyty Dolgellau in Gwynedd were reduced.
Two male and two female beds have been closed at the hospital as part of an ongoing budget review.
The Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board said the beds had been closed "temporarily" due to staff shortages.
Supporters say they see any cuts as a way to "downgrade" the facilities, with the number of beds currently reduced to 20.
"The decision to reduce 24 beds to 20 is extremely disappointing and will have a detrimental affect on the busy minor injuries and outpatient unit as well as the physiotherapy and occupational therapy units at the hospital," said Gwynedd councillor Linda Morgan.
Ms Morgan, who is also chair of the hospital's league of friends, said patients travelled to the hospital from Tywyn, Aberdovey, Blaenau Ffestiniog, Barmouth, Harlech, Bala and Dolgellau.
"It would be a complete folly to downgrade this hospital and expect people to travel long distances for health care," she added.
A spokesperson for Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board said the beds had been closed "temporarily" to "ensure clinical safety of patients and the health and wellbeing of staff".
"This is due to nursing staff shortages. The situation will be reviewed on a regular basis with a view to returning to full capacity as soon as possible," said the spokesperson.