A CHARITABLE group that offers amenities and services not normally available through the NHS has vowed to continue its work in a new hospital.
The pledge came during the annual meeting of the Friends of Richardson Hospital. Since 1981, the Friends have worked with Richardson Hospital trustees and the Durham Dales Primary Care Trust in the hospital in John Street, Barnard Castle.
With work on the new hospital in Victoria Road expected to be completed next year, the Friends have renewed their pledge of support.
Iris Hillery, Friends chairwoman, said: "Thanks to generous bequests during the year, the Friends have been able to fund the installation of a patient communication system in the existing hospital.
"This will provide patients with free television and radio access, plus the ability to make and receive telephone calls at BT call-box rates.
"The Friends are particularly pleased to be able to provide the entertainment free of charge to patients, as in many hospitals these facilities have been offered commercially and are expensive to use."
Potential members and helpers are invited to attend the next meeting of the Friends on June 21. To attend, contact Ms Hillery on (01833) 690860 for details.
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