WORCESTER'S new hospital has been named as one of the top 40 in the country.

A survey by independent company CHKS International has named Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust as one of the nation's top performers.

The Trust entered the programme so its performance could be measured against recognised healthcare standards.

It was one of 82 hospitals from across the UK which took part.

The survey looked at issues including emergency readmission dates, missed outpatient appointments, waiting lists, and the planning and management of day cases.

Graham Harris, chief executive of CHKS International, said the award was an indication of the high standard of service available at the hospital.

"We applaud their openness and their determination to provide the very best services to patients," he said.

Michael O'Riordan, chairman of the Trust, was presented with the award at a ceremony in Birmingham on Tuesday.