Health chiefs have given a reassurance that there are no plans to downgrade services at Pembrokeshire's general hospital.

Furthermore, Pembrokeshire and Derwen NHS Trust, which is around £11m in the red, hasapologised for the anxiety generated about the future of services at Withybush Hospital, Haverfordwest.

Following a protest on Monday by staff and patients angry at plans to reduce front-line services, Pembrokeshire and Derwen NHS chief executive, Mary Hodgeon issued a statement in which she said: "We are sorry these misunderstandings have arisen."

She continued: "As a health community we are working together on finding solutions for the challenging financial position this year in line with all other communities in Wales.

"The temporary savings plans agreed were those which would cause minimum disruption to patients. They have been approved by the Trust and LHB boards, as well as Pembrokeshire Community Health Council, and more work is being undertaken to address long-term solutions in partnership with Welsh Assembly Government.

"Meanwhile, the people of Pembrokeshire can be reassured that there are no plans to downgrade Withybush Hospital. We do need to change the way we provide services to ensure the very best healthcare for people but we will only introduce any changes after the full involvement of staff and local people."