PATIENTS facing Christmas in hospital had a little extra seasonal cheer when the Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen paid them a visit.

Councillor Jack Bury dropped by Blackburn Royal Infirmary to see the work of the health service at one of its most difficult times of year.

Ewen Dyda, site services manager for Blackburn, Hyndburn and Ribble Valley Healthcare Trust, accompanied the Mayor around the hospital. Coun Bury will also visit Queen's Park Hospital this week.

During the two hour visit they went to the medical assessment unit, coronary care unit, orthopaedic and surgical wards and the childrens' ward

Picture: Coun Bury calls in on Joan Robinson, from Wilpshire