A state-of-the-art robotic X-ray machine at Teddington Memorial Hospital has been officially unveiled by MP Sir Vince Cable.

During a special celebration event on October 5 Sir Vince cut the ribbon to declare the new facility officially open. He was accompanied by Chair of the Hospital’s League of Friends, Pamela Bryant MBE.

The League raised £341,000 to fund the new equipment which allows staff to perform a multitude of X-rays in just one room and will ensure that thousands of residents will be able to benefit from this crucial diagnostic service.

The new machine’s flexible robotic arm means the scanner can move around the room, avoiding the need to move patients, which makes examinations faster and less painful.

Sir Vince said: “I was very pleased to be invited to open this excellent new facility. I have had a long relationship with Teddington Memorial Hospital and as an MP have fought to protect this vital part of our community. A huge thank you and praise should go to the League of Friends whose tireless work means that the hospital can continue to provide the very best care for residents.”

Trust Chairman, Steve Swords, said: “The new X-ray machine is a fantastic asset that will help us to continue supporting thousands of patients over the coming years. We are extremely grateful to the League of Friends whose fundraising efforts have already benefited so many patients in the borough. The funding of this new equipment was only made possible by the generous donations received from across the local community, which has always supported the hospital.”

The radiology department at Teddington Hospital provides facilities and staff to support referrals from GP surgeries, outpatient services, the Urgent Treatment Centre and the hospital’s own inpatient ward. The department also provides ultrasound, echocardiography and breast screening services.

If you would like to support the League of Friends by making a donation or volunteering, please visit: www.friends-tmh.org.uk or contact: info@friends-tmh.org.uk or 020 8714 4074.