Celebrating the 60th anniversary of the NHS, Hazel Blears, MP for Salford, said:

"One of the main reasons I wanted to be the MP for Salford was to fight for the NHS in our area.  I believe it is one of our country's greatest achievements. A service that is available to all based on need - not ability to pay.  

"On 5 July we should take time to say thank you to the wonderful staff who look after us when we need care and attention.

"Sixty years since we founded it, we are changing the NHS. Our mission is to make the NHS a more personal health service, fitted to the needs of families and focused on preventing ill health as well as curing it.

"As your MP I can give you this guarantee.  I will always fight to improve the NHS in Salford and work to ensure that it is fit for modern life.”