There are hopeful signs we may be winning the fight to stop a breast cancer unit moving from Brighton to Haywards Heath.

More than 30,000 people have signed petitions organised by The Argus and the Friends of Nigel Porter breast cancer unit at the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Eastern Road, Brighton.

Now the two health authorities that were due to make a decision have deferred it.

Candy Morris, chief executive of West Sussex Health Authority, has been saying for some time members are listening to public opinion and this postponement is a hopeful indication they are.

Everyone agrees the breast cancer unit is doing wonderful work. here is also unanimity the present premises are cramped and unsuitable.

But it is wrong for thousands of women to face a long journey, either by car or slow public transport, to Haywards Heath for treatment.

Ideally, space could be found at the Royal Sussex County Hospital. This delay should enable officials to look both there and at other sites in the Brighton and Hove area.

The weight of public opinion is overwhelmingly against this transfer. It's hard to find anyone outside NHS officials in favour.

After the meeting yesterday, people from Brighton and Hove who were there said they would not give up the fight.

During the weeks and months ahead, we should all redouble our efforts to make it clear this move is not wanted.