THE generosity of a Longbarn family has given a hospital ward a much-needed boost.

The friends and relatives of Elizabeth Holt, known as Betty, gave donations instead of flowers at her funeral at the request of her husband Jack.

They collected £515 which he increased to £1000 and presented it to Ward A6 to be put towards the cost of buying a hoist.

"The nurses said they only had one hoist between six wards," said Mr Holt, "so patients had a long wait for it."

And ward manager Margaret Monks said she was delighted. "The hoist is wonderful and makes a big difference to patients who can't get in and out of bed or a chair, giving them much more independence. We can't thank them enough for this generous gesture."