HRH Princess Alexandra has officially opened a new learning and development centre at Holy Cross Hospital in Haslemere.
The education centre, which has been named St Hugh’s, is just one of several projects to be completed this year in celebration of it being 100 years since the Daughters of the Cross established the Hospital in Haslemere.
Upon arriving at Holy Cross, the Princess was introduced to civic dignitaries, Sisters, senior medical staff and members of the team responsible for completing the building of the new education centre. Princess Alexandra received a tour of St Hugh’s and saw a project that is nearing completion and will improve the delivery of suction and oxygen to patients.
Addressing guests, Christopher Hinton, Chief Executive Officer at Holy Cross Hospital described how Princess Alexandra’s visit was an honour. He said: “Although a centenary is a time for looking back with thanksgiving, here in this new building, we are looking forward. The imaginative design, skilful construction and modern equipment are designed to provide the best possible setting for today’s staff and future generations, to learn, enquire and encourage each other to improve the specialised services we offer.
“In providing us with the funds from their charity to realise this project, the Sisters are willing us on to do more and better for those whose lives have been so seriously affected by illness or injury. We are more than ready to take up the challenge.”
The Princess spent some time talking with the Sisters, staff, patients and their families before being invited to unveil a commemorative plaque.
The visit concluded with the Princess being presented with a posy of flowers and a gift by Ian Davis who is a patient at the Hospital.
St Hugh’s education centre has been named after St Hugh who is a former Bishop of Lincoln and the patron saint of sick children and sick people.
For more information about Holy Cross Hospital visit www.holycross.org.uk.