UNIVERSITY Hospitals Dorset (UHD) has celebrated the opening of a new porters' lodge at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital.

The new lodge, which has opened amid a host of new building work at the hospital, will be used for porters to rest during breaks and in between shifts. The redeveloped space will house a communal seating area for staff, as well as small kitchen space and computer access.

The ribbon was cut by former portering manager Nick Williams in a small ceremony attended by various members of staff.

Stuart Williams, porters manager said: “We are in exciting times. There is a huge amount of development work across our hospitals and a tremendous investment in the new porters lodge which reflects just how important a role our team plays.

“The new facilities will also help us provide the very best high quality care to our patients from the heart of the hospital and a comfortable work place for our much valued staff.”