STAFF have created a seaside-themed garden at the University Hospital of North Tees, in Stockton.

The facility features seating areas in the shape of piers, nautical decorations such as anchors, a ship's wheel and shells and a boat which was donated by a former trust employee.

A team of estates staff designed and created the garden in a disused courtyard within the Medical Rehabilitation Unit in only four weeks.

The seaside garden will be used by patients being cared for on the wards which surround the courtyard as part of their rehabilitation.

Carol Alexander is manager of the University Hospital of North Tees' stroke ward, which overlooks the new facility. She said: "The garden gives a real boost to the overall patient environment, which goes a long way towards speeding up a patient's recovery."

Patient Keith Noble, 57, of Roseworth, Stockton, has been recovering on the stroke ward for two months.

He said: "The new garden has really helped to brighten up my stay in hospital and I am looking forward to actually getting out and sitting in it with my eight-year-old grandson, Jack."

North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Trust spends £40,000 improving the grounds and gardens at its two hospitals in Stockton and Hartlepool each year.