FEARS that Wellington Community Hospital could close following the temporary closure of inpatient beds at community hospitals around Somerset have eased.

Beds at Dene Barton, Shepton Mallet and Chard closed due to a shortage of nurses but the chief executive of Somerset Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Peter Lewis, says the Wellington hospital should stay open.

Members of The League of Friends of Wellington Hospital saw a letter at their meeting last week in which Mr Lewis wrote: “Wellington Community Hospital provides the nearest hospital for discharge of patients from the Taunton Deane area and this was considered a significant factor in concluding that beds at Wellington should not be closed as part of these temporary measures.”

He also referred to work being carried out at the hospital next year – League of Friends members hope this means plans for improvements to the outpatient waiting area can finally move a step nearer. League chairman Annette Cardwell welcomed that as ‘wonderful news at last’.

A cheque for £820 was presented from Monument Lodge of Mark Masons at the meeting. Past president Les Neville said the money was raised from four raffles during his year in office, a fantastic achievement for a small lodge. The money will be used to benefit the health of people in Wellington and the surrounding area.

A certificate of appreciation was also presented during the meeting by Peter Renshaw, chairman of Musgrove Hospital League of Friends, in recognition of Wellington’s contribution of £10,000 towards it’s Bed Appeal to provide electric profiling beds which will reduce the likelihood of patients developing bed sores.

It was also agreed during the meeting to again fund the Christmas party for Stratfield Day Centre and for a convex mirror to be placed in the car park to improve visibility for drivers.

The League continues to fund an aromatherapy and podiatry service for inpatients, and floral displays to brighten up the day room and the outpatient waiting area.