FOOTBALL legend Harry Redknapp has opened the newly revamped cancer ward at Poole Hospital following its £400,000 refurbishment.

The Tottenham Hotspur manager and Sandbanks’ most famous resident joined staff and visitors to celebrate the opening of the 22-bed ward yesterday, taking time to look around and meet some of the patients.

Formerly called Tyneham Ward, but renamed the Sandbanks Ward, it now includes more single rooms to give patients privacy, and a greater range of equipment, as well as new furnishings and décor.

The much-needed refurbishment of the ward was funded through donations, including a large legacy and fundraising activities.

Harry said at the opening: “It’s great to be here. The nurses on these wards are angels. I know what these people do, and the new ward is lovely and bright, with great facilities.

“Cancer affects every family at some stage, and it’s so important to do what we can to support these things.”

The ward is part of the Dorset Cancer Centre, and is housed in the hospital’s Philip Arnold Unit.

Jackie Spendlowe, ward sister on Sandbanks Ward, said the work would “make a real difference to patients coming to the hospital for cancer treatment”.

She added: “It will improve patient privacy and offer a more modern environment that is better equipped to support our doctors and nurses in providing the highest quality patient care.”