AN OFFICIAL opening ceremony has set the seal on the extraordinary transformation of Stratton's 146-year-old hospital into a palatial, state-of-the-art facility — mainly thanks to a remarkable community effort, writes Keith Whitford.

The fund-raising barometer outside the hospital has now surged to £540,000 as a result of the concerted campaign by Stratton Hospital League of Friends and the whole community of Bude and district.

The money raised — the fund-raising continues unabated to help buy equipment — means patients will now have access to improved out-patient, x-ray, minor injuries Unit (MIU) facilities as well as a new in-patient ward.

In addition, a number of community teams will be based there which will improve communications between community and hospital staff —the ultimate goal being to improve the quality of patient care.

For the full report, and a round up of the area news and sport, please see this week's edition of the 'Post'.