WORK has begun on a new kitchen, lounge and bathroom for the children's wards at Blackpool Victoria Hospital.

The five week revamp, the first of two phases of development, includes creating a kitchen so that visiting parents will have somewhere close by to get a drink and a bite to eat.

Helen Oliver, paediatric matron, said: "The area is being refurbished to make it more attractive and inviting to parents who want to be close to their children at what can be a traumatic and difficult time.

"The first stage involves one of the bedrooms being converted into a kitchen.

"The refurbished sitting room will provide a relaxing area for parents that is close to their child but away from the ward.

"These improvements will make a big difference to the overall environment for children and families coming into the unit."

The £38,000 redevelopment is being paid for by fund-raising, and she thanked everyone who has helped so far but said there is 'still has a long way to go' before the target is reached.

The department hopes to start the second phase of the work towards the end of this year.

As part of the fund-raising effort, Cartridge World, Cleveleys, is donating money for used cartridges that can be recycled. Send your used cartridges to Helen Oliver, Children's Wards, Victoria Hospital, Whinney Heys Road, Blackpool, FY3 8NR.

If you can help with fund-raising in other ways call Helen on 306963.