RESIDENTS had the chance to find out more about Basingstoke hospital and its services when they met with some of the frontline staff.

Representatives of the local NHS and the North Hampshire Patients Forum joined forces to organise a health awareness day in Church Cottage, at St Michael's Church, in Basingstoke.

Local people were invited to meet members of the Patients Forum and staff from various departments in Basingstoke hospital, including maternity services and the stroke unit, to get answers to their questions about healthcare in the area.

They were also able to meet the team from Patient Advice and Liaison Services (PALS), which provides advice to patients, their families and carers, and helps patients to resolve any complaints about the NHS.

Mary Edwards, chief executive of Basingstoke hospital, said: "This was an excellent opportunity for hospital staff and the Patients Forum to be in touch with the local community and share up-to-date information on hospital services.

"Staff value these events, and they enjoy the chance to come out of the hospital to meet the general public."

John Blairman, from the North Hampshire Patients Forum, said: "Hospital staff kindly rescheduled their day to join us, as we knew everyone would enjoy the opportunity to meet them and ask their questions.

"We are also planning similar days in the Alton and Fleet areas."