Weston General Hospital’s fundraising appeal to purchase a new scanner has been boosted by two generous donations.

About £400,000 is needed to pay for the equipment, and Weston Area Health NHS Trust (WAHT) is closing in on its target.

In recent weeks the Weston Association of Malayalees has given £310 to the cause, while carrier bag payment scheme at Radstock Co-operative Society’s store in Haywood Village has raised a further £1,000.

WAHT chairman, Grahame Paine, said: “The kindness of local groups and businesses is bringing us ever-closer to our target which is great news for our patients. Our improvements have begun within the X-ray department which, alongside the new equipment, will improve the experience for our patients as well as staff.”

The new scanner appeal has so far managed to raise approximately £340,000.