GOLFERS at Bishop Auckland Golf Club tee off today to launch fundraising for a £70,000 art programme for a new hospital.

Bosses at Bishop Auckland General are working with Northern Arts to brighten their £60m building when it opens in 2003.

Part of the work involves designing three of the courtyards surrounded by wards, theatres and public areas. One will contain a mosaic, and the others a water feature and carvings.

Some money will be spent on commissioning projects including a window and a glass sculpture. Schools and other groups will be invited to display their work, and patients will also be involved.

Anyone wanting to support the appeal can contact Susan Nicholson on (01388) 454000, extension 2637.