TWO films highlighting multi-million pound construction work set for Bournemouth and Poole hospitals have been released by health bosses.

The animated shorts show the various stages of the new builds, which are scheduled to start early next year as part of a £250 million project.

Narrated by Dr Isabel Smith, consultant anaesthetist and medical director for strategy and transformation at University Hospitals Dorset (UHD), they give an insight into the development of Poole's new theatres complex and the development of the new maternity, children’s, emergency and critical care unit at the Royal Bournemouth.

UHD chief executive Debbie Fleming said: "We hope these animations provide an easy reference guide on the major construction work about to begin across our hospital sites.

"Our clinicians have been at the forefront in developing these plans, and we are delighted to introduce Dr Isabel Smith, our medical director for strategy and transformation, who explains these changes so clearly.

"We are ready to build a future that will provide better services and deliver improved outcomes for the thousands of patients that we care for, as we unleash the ambitions of our incredible teams."

The construction work on the hospitals is set for completion in 2024.

Both projects are part of the reorganisation of NHS services across Dorset which will see Poole Hospital become the main centre for planned treatment in east Dorset, whilst at the same time the Royal Bournemouth Hospital becoming the centre for emergency care.

Dr Smith said: "I hope these videos highlight the bright future for both Poole and the Royal Bournemouth Hospital.

"However, the investment is not just in buildings, it will be an investment in the future quality of care our organisation can offer to the patients of Dorset and beyond."

The films are available on the UHD website and YouTube.