The Trent Strategic Health Authority said it was the first of a series of meetings to address the problem.

It said it wanted to ensure a recovery plan is delivered and financial balance is achieved this financial year.

The authority organised the performance meetings in Nottingham when plans to lay off 300 staff and close five hospital wards were revealed.

Compulsory redundancies

The authority has overall responsibility for ensuring the health needs of people in the county are met.

The problems have been be debated in the House of Commons.

The recovery plan suggests two ward closures at Lincoln County and Boston's Pilgrim hospitals and one at Grantham Hospital.

The staff union, Unison, has said it will not accept any compulsory redundancies.