VISITS to Kidderminster Hospital just became a little bit easier for patients with mobility problems.

The League of Friends of Kidderminster Hospitals has provided four new wheelchairs for the busy portering team which provides a 24/7 service for those attending the Bewdley Road site.

Porters collect patients from the car park and take them to the hospital services they require and are also involved in transfers between hospital departments.

But their ageing fleet of wheelchairs was struggling to keep up with demand, and the Friends agreed to purchase four new ones costing £2,200.

Jon Spells transport and portering services manager, said: “This will make things considerably better for those patients who need our help.

“Unfortunately some people have had to wait because a wheelchair has not been available and that meant they could ultimately miss their appointment.

“The new chairs make a hospital visit considerably better for those patients who are not very mobile and we are very grateful to the League of Friends for their kind donation.”

The Friends organisation raises funds through its popular hospital coffee shop and Swan Centre charity shop in Kidderminster and via legacies and donations from others wanting to support the town hospital.

For information on how to become a volunteer with the Friends, call 01562 67653.