MUMS-TO-BE will benefit from a portable ultrasound scanner and trolley donated to Stroud Maternity Hospital.

The Stroud Hospitals League of Friends raised nearly £23,000 to buy the device, which was officially presented last Thursday, April 10.

Members of the friends together with midwives from the unit and representatives from Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust were present to mark the occasion.

Lead midwife Sue Hill thanked the friends for their donation, saying: “Without this ongoing support, we could not continue to make improvements to Stroud Maternity. “We are delighted that such improvements help to make our unit such a popular destination for pregnant women in the area.”

The latest portable ultrasound equipment can do everything a full-sized scanner can do but is the size of a laptop computer. Purchasing this equipment will mean patients can remain in the privacy and calm of the Maternity Unit, rather than having to walk to the main hospital.

Friends president Dr Roy Lamb said: “On behalf of the Friends of Stroud Hospital I can say we are delighted to provide this up-to-date equipment. This technical support will no doubt enhance the service to the mothers at Stroud Maternity Unit.”

The Stroud Hospitals League of Friends is always looking for volunteers to help at the hospital.

Potential volunteers, or anyone wanting to know more about organising an event, should email info@stroudleagueoffriends.org or call 01453 764926.