GOVERNMENT Chief Whip Hilary Armstrong has visited a £1m hospital at Stanhope, in her North West Durham constituency.
Ms Armstrong, who met staff at the Weardale Community Hospital, said: "I am delighted to visit the hospital at the end of one of the most important weeks for the NHS since its creation.
"The Budget announcement guarantees a massive long-term cash boost for our health service.
"Hospitals like this show what the extra investment can achieve.
"It is wonderful to be here to see it up and running. Many people thought it would never be built, but it is a reality now, and I know the staff here will make it a place that local people will treasure."
The new building, in the grounds of the former Horn Hall hospital, provides long- term and respite care for 20 elderly and convalescing patients, and offers physiotherapy and occupational therapy services.
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