A LONG-awaited new X-ray machine for Tiverton and District Hospital is expected to be operational by the end of the month.

Half of the cash for the new state-of-the-art diagnostic machine, which cost £120,000, has come from funds raised by the local community.

Les Hickman, cluster manager for Tiverton and District hospital, said: "We are so grateful for the generous donations made by local people which have enabled us to progress with the project.

"In partnership with our League of Friends here at the hospital we are able to provide modern facilities and significantly improve services for our patients".

Chairman of the Tiverton Hospital League of Friends Arthur Govier said he was delighted that Tiverton was finally set to get its new X-ray machine.

He said: "The response from the general public was absolutely fantastic, within eight months we had reached the target set at the beginning of the appeal."

Mr Govier added: "The Friends would not normally become involved with such a large-scale expenditure projects, but there was a clear need for this equipment.

"More recently, we have undertaken to support the provision of three additional hi-lo beds, which are adjustable and can reduce the risk of a patient rolling out of bed."

Four weeks of structural work to facilitate the replacement of the existing X-ray equipment, which was transferred from the old hospital in 2004, began last week.

To ensure the work is undertaken as quickly and as safely as possible a mobile machine to conduct simple X-rays will be used until Tuesday, March 23. Patients will also be given the opportunity of receiving an X-ray service at Honiton hospital.

Use of the new upgraded X-ray machine is set to begin on Wednesday, March 24.

Anyone wishing to speak to someone to clarify the extent of temporary X-ray services at Tiverton and District hospital is advised to telephone 01884 235553.

Tiverton Hospital League of Friends fundraising continues apace. The annual ball takes place on Friday, April 9, at Blundell's, featuring dancing to the Joe Loss Orchestra and a four course buffet. Tickets are £30 and are available from Arthur Govier on 01884 256325 or from Bray Accountants in Tiverton.