A THRIVING hospital radio station is looking to the future after receiving two donations.

Darlington's Hospital Radio, Radio Skerne, was presented with two £500 cheques from the Mayor's Charitable Fund and Darlington Lions Club.

The cash will go towards the installation of a computerised music and jingle system.

Radio Skerne volunteers Frank Benson and Mike Denham met Darlington Mayor Councillor Doris Jones, and representatives from the Lions Club for the official cheque presentation in the town hall.

Station manager, Mike Smith, said: "Both charities have been very generous in the past. In fact, the Lions Club was instrumental in setting up the station in 1984.

"The money will help buy a new computer system, which will be used to store music and station jingles digitally - a system now found in other hospital radio stations up and down the country."

He said: "The station currently uses a cartridge-based jingle system, but over time these units have broken down and replacement parts are hard to find because they are no longer made."

The station has also announced the installation of a bedside television, radio and telephone system.

Radio Skerne is run entirely by volunteers and is looking for new members over 18 to become ward visitors, request collectors and fundraisers.

For further information, contact the station on (01325) 743304.