PATIENTS can now begin using the ‘jewel in the crown’ of Williton Community Hospital – a new ward which has been officially opened.

The Meadow Ward was made possible by the Williton League of Friends, who have raised more than £120,000 to help fund the redesign and refurbishment, alongside £350,000 from NHS Somerset.

Betty Small, chair of Williton League of Friends Chairman, said: “Meadow Ward is the jewel in the crown of Williton Community Hospital.”

The new layout, which has been designed to better suit stroke and dementia patients, includes en-suite shower rooms, toilet facilities for inpatients, a new open day room, dining area and overnight stay facilities for relatives.

Edward Colgan, Somerset Partnership NHS Foundation Trust chief executive, said: “Meadow Ward, with its new furniture and fittings, will be a superb facility for the local population and a comfortable and relaxing environment for our patients.

“The generosity of our benefactors and their financial commitment has supported the hospital with many other projects including the refurbishment of Graces’ Room, our lovely new palliative care room.

“On behalf of staff and patients of Williton Hospital, past, present and future, I would like to thank the members of Williton League of Friends for their tireless support and NHS Somerset for investing in the improvements for patients and their relatives.

“I would like to pay special tribute to the chairman of the League of Friends, Betty Small, previous lifelong president Frank Morgan and the treasurer, Kevin Bye, who has made sure that funds have always been well spent in the interests of patients, their carers and families.”

Mr Colgan was assisted at the opening by Shirley Dee, vice-chair and lead volunteer organiser who has helped at the hospital for more than 27 years.