RESIDENTS could get a say in how the “under used” Fryatt Hospital in Dovercourt is run in a bid to protect its future.

A band of MPs have supported a new bill, highlighted in the House of Commons this week, to give communities a chance to run their own hospitals.

Harwich and North Essex MP Bernard Jenkin, has supported the move, which he said could see the Fryatt Hospital used to its full potential.

“There is no danger that the Fryatt Hospital is going to close," he said.

“Harwich is a prime example of an underused community facility which local people clearly care about and which could benefit from this bill.”