NORTHALLERTON mayor John Forrest is supporting the Friarage Hospital MRI Scanner Appeal throughout the next year.

South Tees Hospitals Charity, in partnership with the Friends of the Friarage, is aiming to raise the £2 million required to buy an MRI scanner – an essential piece of medical equipment which is used to investigate almost any part of the body – at the Friarage Hospital.

A scanner for the Friarage will be a valuable resource for medical teams and a welcome addition to the diagnostic services currently available at the Northallerton hospital.

The response from local people, business and staff has meant the appeal is fast approaching its first £1 million.

Cllr Forrest said: “As Mayor of Northallerton I pledged to work for the good of the town and its people. I am delighted to support the scanner appeal and believe this is something that will benefit local people and enhance our local hospital, which I know is a cause close to lots of people’s hearts.”

There will be a coffee morning and fundraising sale at Northallerton Town Hall on Wednesday, August 6 from 10am until 2pm, where there will be hot drinks and cakes, and various stalls.

Anyone with goods to donate for sale can bring them on the day, and stalls are still available.

Contact Judith Masterman in the the appeal office at Friarage Hospital on 01609-764936 or email judith.masterman@stees.nhs.uk