A NEW survey shows that patients at the Royal United Hospital in Bath are happy with the way they are treated.

More than 560 people were questioned and 96 per cent had confidence in the medical staff treating them, while 88 per cent would recommend the hospital to others.

People were also questioned about waiting times, food and cleanliness.

The hospital was required to carry out the survey as part of the Government's NHS Plan which aims to put the views of patients at the forefront of hospital work.

One of the biggest criticisms was the lack of information people receive before receiving treatment in hospital.

This good news comes at a time when the hospital is deep in debt.

In April, the RUH was predicting a massive £17m overspend for this year.

This figure has been recalculated and is likely to be in the region of £22m.

The hospital was also given a no-star rating by the Department of Health in its latest performance tables and has the worst waiting list crisis in the country.