A HOSPITAL in Taunton has been in bloom as it provides patients and staff with its own little version of the Chelsea Flower Show.

Patients, staff, family and friends all basked in the sunshine today as Musgrove Park Hospital hosted the flower show in the Jubilee Building Courtyard. 

The event was organised by the staff from the Montacute Ward. 

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Carol Hughes, who spearheaded the organisation, said: "There's lot of events that go on in the wards, they've become very popular. 

"I've wanted to do a flower show for a while but I knew I wanted it to be outside. 

"We picked the Chelsea Flower Show week and the weather has been beautiful.

"The day has really brought out the community, and its changed some of the patients' day to be out in the sunshine." 

Students from Kings College and Taunton Prep School came to entertain the visitors with some live music. 

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Rachael Putt, sister on Montacute ward, which cares for patients recovering from surgery, said: “Patients often tell us that they would love to attend the Chelsea Flower Show, which is taking place this week, so this year we have decided to bring Chelsea to Musgrove.

“We hope patients, relatives and staff have a great time at the flower show. The event has provided a real focus for patients, many of who have contributed to the event.

“We know that when people are encouraged to mobilise after surgery, their recovery is enhanced and they are less likely to experience post-operative complications.  By focusing on their nutrition and mobility, we can decrease patients’ length of stay and help them to return home earlier.

“I want to say a huge thank you to all the organisations which have generously given us the flowers and to event organiser Carole Hughes and her amazing volunteers for all their efforts in helping to put on the flower show.”

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