Campaigners calling for the NHS to be protected from privatisation were out in force in Ilford town centre as part of a national day of action.

The event, co-ordinated by campaign group 38 Degrees, took place outside Ilford railway station in Cranbrook Road, Ilford, on Saturday.

Protesters joined thousands of other demonstrators across the UK calling on the government to protect NHS funding and keep it out of the TTIP trade deal with the US.

Sana Khan, who lives in Ilford South, said: “We all need the NHS at our best and worst moments in life.

“Ilford South’s day of action will show our MP candidates that if they want to sell off or run down our NHS, they’ll have a fight on their hands.”

David Babbs, executive director of 38 Degrees, said: “The NHS is the best healthcare system in the world, and it belongs to all of us. But too many politicians have ignored the doctors and nurses on the frontline.”

To sign 38 Degrees’ petition visit 38degrees.org.uk/nhs.