During 2015/16 and '17 Alscot pledged to support the £1 million Fundraising Scheme for the new Stratford Hospital Cancer and Eye Ward. Initially a board was set up to create a strategic plan to turn the new £22m hospital from functional to fabulous. Estate Owner, Emma Holman-West, along with other local business leaders and associates, joined the committee to help take the fundraising initiative forward.

Over the past three years residents, businesses and hospital staff donated to the cause and worked tirelessly to raise funds. Through fundraising events, which were enthusiastically supported, Alscot and The Bell were proud to be able to contribute over £30,000 to the fund.

The hard work paid off and the new £22million hospital opened in July 2017 and was equipped with extra non standard comforts, from upgraded chemotherapy chairs to iPads.

Emma was also instrumental in the design of the interior where colours and comfort were given serious consideration along with the practical necessities. Both patients and their families, particularly those visiting the cancer ward, could potentially spend long periods of time in the hospital. It was important to Emma that people using the facilities were made to feel as comfortable as possible both mentally and physically.

South Warwickshire Foundation Trust (SWFT) – which runs the hospital – say the state-of-the-art building will make a huge difference to patients across the district and surrounding areas.

Shockingly, nearly 30 per cent fewer cancer patients in Stratford choose to have chemotherapy compared to neighbouring Warwick Hospital – simply as a result of the time it takes to travel to the Aylesford Unit at Warwick.

But it is now hoped more will opt to use the new cancer unit, which is situated on the building’s top floor. It contains 12 treatment rooms and two emergency treatment rooms.

Chief executive Glen Burley said: “The opening of the new Stratford Hospital is such a big moment in the trust’s history. Access to local health services is critical for our communities and this new facility is something we are all very proud of. I would like to thank everyone that has made this possible; staff, fundraisers and donors.”