76243-20IT'S hard to believe it now, but one day the workings of the Great Western Hospital will be consigned to the history book.

But a time capsule will give future generations a snapshot of 21st century hospital life.

The capsule containing surgeons' masks and gowns, syringes, gloves, hospital brochures and official reports was buried beneath a courtyard at the weekend.

Also included among the 30 items is a photographic diary which captures the construction of the hospital's new treatment centre.

The hospital's chief executive, Lyn Hill-Tout, who buried the capsule during an open day, said: "The items either relate to the building of the new treatment centre or to how we provide health care in 2005.

"Whoever finds it will get a fascinating insight into what we do here and how we do it, although I sincerely hope it does not get opened for some considerable time."

Visitors to the open day enjoyed interactive displays about hospital departments and health matters from reflexology to nutrition.

They also got to peek inside the new treatment centre, find out about careers in the NHS and tour round operating theatres.

Organiser Elaine Lorton said: "We wanted to hold another open day because the first was such an amazing success and drew 2,000 people."

The new £30 million Brunel NHS Treatment Centre will treat 5,500 patients every year once it opens in April.