THANKS to the tireless support of members of the Abergavenny branch of the thrombosis and general research fund, Nevill Hall Hospital has recently taken delivery of an ultrasound system.

Patients with early inflammatory Arthritis will benefit from the ACUSON X300 ultrasound system made available thanks to a huge donation from the Thrombosis and General Research Fund.

It will be used as an adjunct within the hospital's Arthritis Clinic for the early diagnosis and treatment of Rheumatology patients.

For almost forty years, the Thrombosis and General Research Fund at Nevill Hall Hospital has dedicated itself to supporting research into treatment and delivery of healthcare. Its dedicated fundraisers are delighted to have contributed substantially towards the cost of the new X300 system, and fundraising events have included local community schemes as well as sponsored walks and prize draws.

Improving the quality of service to Rheumatology patients, Dr Stuart Linton, Consultant Rheumatologist, said, "We chose this system as it clearly fulfilled all our requirements, particularly excellent image resolution in Power and Colour Doppler, and it will be used to significantly enhance the service we provide to our patients suffering with early inflammatory Arthritis."

Four decades on, the Fund has raised a staggering £1 million for Nevill Hall Hospital, including its greatest achievement, a sizeable contribution towards an MRI scanner seven years ago.

Brian Lane, Vice Chair of the Abergavenny branch said, "We're delighted that our continued activities have enabled us to contribute towards crucial equipment for local patients. We will now focus our efforts on maximising our fundraising for new projects."

Peter Bishop, Chair of the Fund's Awarding Committee added, "As well as donations from legacies, it is a huge testament to the hard work and determination of our members, that we have been able to provide funding for state of the art equipment and various important research projects. We're very proud of what the Fund has achieved and are hopeful of its continued success in the future."