THE Alexandra Hospital's League of Friends is celebrating yet another hugely successful year of fundraising and are now setting their sights on the next target.

This year, the league raised more than £153,000 and spent more than £137,000 on vital equipment for the hospital.

In the coming year, the group has committed to capital expenditure of about £97,000.

Already, £57,000 has been allocated to two new scopes for the endoscopy department. The purchase of the endoscope and colonoscope is likely to take place before Christmas.

The hospital is also currently developing a new multi-disciplinary centre which will provide facilities for consultancy, oncology nursing and diagnostic facilities on one site.

The league has committed to a maximum contribution of £40,000 for equipment and furnishings for the new centre and the money will be needed in the spring.

A spokesman said: "This is money we have to have for vitally needed equipment at the hospital.

"We are so grateful to everyone who tries so hard and supports us so we can carry out this very important work."

League members recently received a thank you card from the hospital's radiology department after staff received a new portable X-ray unit which is needed for X-raying very small children and people who are too sick to be moved.

Anyone who would like to get involved with the league can call them on 512009.