A hospital opened its doors to hundreds of visitors for a behind-the-scenes look at how it operates. 

Dorset County Hospital (DCH) held its annual open day allowing members of the public a unique insight into what happens on a day-to-day basis. 

Talks about the future of the hospital were given during the day as well as tours to the theatre, cardiology and equipment areas. Visitors browsed displays in the Education Centre where members of the hospital trust spoke about subjects such as safeguarding, recruitment, organ donation and the hospital’s Cancer Appeal. 

Rachel Cole, of DCH Cancer Appeal, said: “People are really interested and are stopping for a chat. 

“A lot of people here are new contacts for us. Even if they are not sure what to do now, we will send them away with a leaflet and then in six months we may hear from them again.”

Free advice was given by the dermatology team who carried out skin and mole checks, as well as the respiratory, diabetes and nursing teams who carried out free health checks throughout the day. 

Youngsters could even bring their toys to the Teddy Bear Clinic where they could be bandaged or have their heart listened to. 

There was also interactive learning where those wanting to expand their knowledge could learn how to perform CPR on an adult and a baby, wear glasses to learn how some cope with degenerative diseases, and learn about how to treat different wounds on a body. 

Kerry Southorn, from Portland, was visiting with sons Finlay, eight, and Bradley, six. 

She said: “We came for a look around after seeing a post about it on Facebook. 

“We’ve had our hearts checked and we tried the glasses earlier. It’s good to visualise how other people’s conditions can be.

"It’s great for them to come, have a look around and learn new things.”

There was also a chance for newly qualified nurses to apply for the Preceptorship Programme in February and September 2018.

Chief Executive Patricia Miller said: “The open day is a great opportunity for us to showcase the excellent work of the Trust, and to give visitors the chance to see all the hard work that goes on behind the scenes at the hospital.”

“Staff and volunteers put a lot of work into organising the afternoon and we were delighted to give so many people the opportunity to find out more about how their local hospital operates.”