PATIENTS waiting for scans could be seen quicker if the Alexandra Hospital takes on a new piece of equipment.

The hospital has been offered a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanner by the Department of Health, which is looking for somewhere to house it.

The scanner revolutionised the diagnosis of certain diseases. It passes magnetic fields and pulses through patients, then powerful computers collect the data and reconstruct a highly detailed image of the area in question.

It would cost £500,000 to extend the radiology department at the hospital for the scanner, half of which would be given by the Department of Health if it makes a firm offer.

Before now, the hospital has had the use of a mobile MRI scanner.