AN ambitious campaign to raise funds for specialist equipment at Swindon's new Great Western Hospital has been given a boost thanks to the Thamesdown Ladies Choir.

A specialist reclining chair worth £400 has been handed over by the choir, which intends to continue raising more money through fundraising concerts. The chair will be used in the hospital's new day care centre.

"We are absolutely thrilled that we have been able to help the Evolution campaign," explained musical director Pat Langley-Poole.

"Hopefully we can raise lots of money for the new day centre."

Hospital spokesman Chris Birdsall said: "We are delighted by the generosity of the Thamesdown Ladies Choir in raising funds for our day care therapy centre."

The Evolution campaign started in September, and aims to raise £5 million to buy equipment for the new hospital.

The Great Western Hospital opens in November 2002.