A NEW airport-style buggy worth over £25,000 is helping patients get around Southmead Hospital.

Patients and visitors with mobility problems or who struggle with walking long distances can now hop on board the new motorised buggy to catch a lift through the atrium at the hospital.

Driven by volunteers from the Move Makers team, who meet, greet and direct patients and visitors, the buggy patrols the 280 metre long atrium.

Jane Ibbunson, head of fundraising for Southmead Hospital Charity, said: “Southmead Hospital Charity are pleased to be able to support this new facility in the hospital which has already been welcomed by patients and visitors who need a little extra help.

“I’ve been delighted to hear some of the positive comments about the difference it has made and that once again our Move Makers are a wonderful helping hand for the public.”

The £26,500 buggy has been funded by Southmead Hospital Charity and Southmead Hospital League of Friends.

The hospital has been trialling the use of the buggy with a vehicle on loan since June but it has proved so successful that an order has been placed for a custom made buggy which will take over from October.

Since July 1 the buggy has helped more than 3,000 passengers.

Simon Wood, director of facilities at North Bristol NHS Trust, said the buggy is a unique way to help visitors and patients on their journey through the hospital.

“The new hospital was designed as a space to encourage free flow of people through a bright and spacious environment," he said.

John Vickery, chairman of Southmead Hospital League of Friends, said: “We're delighted to be able to support this valuable addition to the facilities at the hospital.

“The buggy will also allow the public to visit the League’s coffee shop and help us to continue to raise funds. We are also looking to welcome new volunteers to assist us and support our fantastic hospital."

The buggy is available Monday to Friday between 8am and 4pm and at times in the evenings and weekends.