SALISBURY patients are one step closer to getting a new MRI Scanner at thanks to a generous donation from an unusual source.

Bryan Woods, of Shaftesbury, has donated more than £600 to the Stars Appeal’s campaign for a second scanner at Salisbury District Hospital.

Bryan’s older brother Bill died in January after, a year-long battle with cancer, and Bryan was left to re-home his collection of racing pigeons.

It was a hobby they had shared for over 65 years.

Selling the pigeons raised Bryan £648, which he decided to donate to the campaign for a new MRI scanner.

Bryan, aged 80, knows the hospital and its current MRI scanner very well.

He said: “I’m very grateful for the scanner, I’ve used it several times including for a brain scan and a lung scan.

“I’ve always had first class treatment at Salisbury Hospital.”

Every year the Stars Appeal raises over £1 million to fund and provide a wide range of ‘added extras’ to patients, including additional support and services for those with cancer, elderly patients and new-born babies needing special care.

On top of these ongoing financial commitments the Stars Appeal is running a major campaign to raise £1.5 million for a second MRI scanner, which would mean less waiting time and an earlier diagnosis for many patients.

The current machine is running at full capacity and some patients are having to visit other hospitals to have scans or receive a diagnosis.

n To find out more about the MRI Scanner Campaign or the work carried out by the Stars Appeal visit starsappeal.org or contact the fundraising office on 01722 429005.