MIDDLETON St George Hospital and Care Homes, formerly known as Trees Park, is investing £90,000 on a computer and IT network.

Computer stations at Middleton St George Hospital, and a sister site at Cheadle Royal, in Cheshire, will be linked to a network allowing instant communication and the freedom to share information and administration.

Medical staff at the two sites will have access to the system, streamlining the company's procedures and communications and helping parent company Affinity Healthcare to plan future developments.

The work will lead to a redesign of the company's website and email accounts for all staff being set up. It is expected to take two months to complete.

Middleton St George Hospital offers a range of specialist psychiatric services and the care homes cater for 150 elderly and infirm patients.

Arthur Robinson, chief executive of the hospital, said: "Since the acquisition of Trees Park by Affinity Healthcare in May 2000, a significant amount of money has been invested in the development of the site and this is another example of our commitment to excellence.

Steve Murden, IT manager for Affinity Healthcare added: "This is a major investment for the company but one that will greatly assist in the smooth running of the whole operation."