WORCESTER MP Robin Walker has applauded hospital staff for their hard work over the busy Christmas period.

Mr Walker visited Worcestershire Royal Hospital on Friday, December 19 where he was shown around a number of wards by hospital chaplain Rev David Southall.

During his visit the Conservative MP was shown around the haematology ward, where he met patients – one of whom described himself as “65 plus VAT” – who praised the work of doctors and nurses in the hospital keeping them in good health.

Mr Walker was also shown around the new £24 million oncology centre, which is due to open next month, and said he was delighted to hear how happy patients were with their treatment.

“Each time I come to the hospital in Worcester I am impressed anew with the care and professionalism of the clinical and nursing staff and the fantastic job that they do for local patients,” he said.

“It was great to see the state-of-the-art equipment and the highly trained and passionate way in which care was being provided.

“In particular it is good to know that cancer care in Worcestershire continues to improve and that with the new oncology centre, more people will be able to have that care closer to home without the need to travel long distances for out of county treatment.”

Mr Walker also visited the Royal’s maternity ward and was told about the new midwife-led Meadow Birth Centre, which is due to open at the hospital in the next few weeks. Although the unit has been funded by the government, the hospital still needs to raise about £25,000 to pay for decoration and furniture.

Mr Walker said he was particularly interested to see the maternity unit.

“There is something very special about it at this time of year when we recall the nativity,” he said.

“Worcester’s midwives are passionate about the support that they provide to new parents and will have the opportunity to do even more when they get their own unit from next year.

“I hope local businesses will consider supporting their excellent appeal or donating furniture to help the new unit.”

The Royal, along with hospitals across the country, has been under significant strain in recent months, with a constantly increasing number of patients despite calls by health bosses only to visit A&E in a genuine emergency.

Mr Walker said he saw first-hand just how much pressure was being put on hospital staff during his visit.

“It was clear from the crowded car park and the busy reception that our hospital is exceptionally busy at this time of year and there can be no doubt that the NHS is facing some huge challenges in terms of demand,” he said.

“Knowing this I just want to say thank you to all the staff who work incredibly hard and often through Christmas to deliver care.

“I will keep pushing for more funding for our local NHS but it is the people who make it so special.”

While patients should always call 999 or go to A&E in an emergency, there are a number of alternative services in Worcestershire for less serious injuries and illnesses.

Minor Injury Units in Malvern, Evesham, Kidderminster, Bromsgrove and Tenbury can treat broken bones, cuts, wounds and other less serious conditions and waiting times are often significantly shorter than at A&E. The Kidderminster and Tenbury units are open 24 hours a day.

Free health advice is also available from NHS 111 and pharmacists and GPs are also able to offer help and guidance.