MALVERN’S new Community Hospital has received an official blessing from the Bishop of Worcester, Rev John Inge.

Staff, patients and hospital volunteers gathered for a special service.

Bishop Inge was joined by Malvern Hospital chaplain Rev Marjorie Stanton-Hyde as he gave thanks for the building and all who supported its construction, and blessed current and future patients, staff and volunteers.

“Thank you for inviting me to this splendid hospital. It’s a joy to be here and pray for God’s wishes upon all those involved with the hospital,” he said. “Long may it embody all that is best about the National Health Service - care, compassion and commitment.”

Patient Jean Salisbury said: “It was a beautiful service and a very nice gesture on the part of the Bishop, which we thoroughly appreciate.”