Rosemere Cancer Centre’s new 24 bed Ribblesdale Ward welcomed its first patients at 9am today (Friday, 22 October) following a short official opening ceremony.

Former patient Mike Richardson was given the honour of cutting the ribbon to declare the ward, which will take cancer patients from throughout Lancashire and South Cumbria, up and running following its extensive remodelling.

Advertisements

Previously, the ward was just a typical hospital ward but thanks to £1.05 million raised by supporters of Rosemere Cancer Foundation through its 20 Years Anniversary Appeal, it has been transformed into a uniquely healing environment with a nature inspired interior to promote a healthy recovery and positive well-being for patients, their loved ones and staff.

Read more: Longridge hairdresser shaves head to honour dad undergoing cancer treatment 

Dan Hill, chief officer of Rosemere Cancer Foundation, said: “We are incredibly proud of our supporters for helping us make the Ribblesdale Ward unrecognisable from how it was just a few short months ago. The upgrade is quite stunning.”

Hundreds of patients are treated on Ribblesdale Ward every year. They are looked after by a dedicated team of matron, 24 consultants, 15 nurses, 20 healthcare assistants, a ward clerk, two housekeepers and a domestics crew.

Following the refurbishment, most will now have single or shared en suite bedrooms. There is also a relatives room with homely furnishings and a kitchen area plus a room where patients can relax by watching TV, listening to music or by playing video games.

See what’s happening near you by entering your postcode below or visit InYourArea

Read more: See the latest Preston news and headlines