A CLOCK to replace one lost at the former Winterton Hospital site could be installed in a new community hospital at Sedgefield, County Durham.

Villagers were angry when they discovered that the Winterton clock had been sold to an American buyer.

They had wanted to retain it as a memorial, and incorporate it in the design of the new hospital.

Now Sedgefield Town Council has learnt that NHS Estates is considering installing a replacement clock at the new £8m hospital.

Councillor Maxine Robinson said: "We might get something that represents the clock tower or recognises the landmark, so that's something."

Plans for the new hospital were discussed at a recent town council meeting, which included input from members of the public.

Coun Robinson said: "Members of the council are all fully supportive of it.

"We have waited an awful long time for this, and now we're in a position to get this new facility we are just delighted it is going to come to fruition.

"There was a lot of discussion and plenty of constructive comments, both from councillors and members of the public."

Suggestions included making sure the gardens were south facing and that there was an adequate and safe public transport facility.

The council also wants to stress that there should be disabled access throughout the building and crche or nursery provision for staff.

The town council's comments will be passed on to Sedgefield Borough Council, and all other relevant bodies