PATIENTS at the Brine Spa in Droitwich will not be the only ones receiving non-surgical facelifts.

The complex itself is to be the focus of a major refurbishment programme.

The spa, which stands near the town centre, and is part of Droitwich Hospital, is a familiar landmark in the area and is world-renowned.

"The Brine bath is a unique component of the hospital and attracts visitors from far and wide," said the hospital's executive director, Michael Scott.

"It is used by the hospital for therapeutic purposes during the morning and becomes a leisure facility in the afternoon and evening.

"The current facility is constrained by space and planning permission has been obtained to improve the changing facilities and extend the range of services available.

"The final configuration has still to be decided and a business plan is currently being drawn up to support the development. It is hoped a decision will be made by the end of the year."

New Droitwich Mayor, Coun Anne Taft, supported the proposals with a visit to the site yesterday.

"The brine spa is an important part of the town," she said.

"It is used not just by hospital patients, but people from across the country and I welcome these changes."