Local hospital charities have joined forces.

The Royal Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole hospitals charities have formally joined together to create University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity with a new look and branding.

To mark the occasion, a series of celebration events were held for staff and public across all three hospital sites.

There were messages of support from health charity partners as well as good wishes from colleagues and supporters including AFC Bournemouth legend, Steve Fletcher.

Debbie Fleming, chief executive, said,” Every day the staff at UHD do amazing things, our hospitals providing life-changing surgery and care to every NHS patient who need our expert services.

“But generous donations to the charity mean we can do even more to support our patients and staff.

“Through the creation of University Hospital Dorset NHS Charity, we hope that, with the support of our donors, we will be able to make patients and their families more comfortable, provide more and better equipment, and support the health and well-being of our staff.”

Debbie Anderson, head of charity, said, “The newly formed charity enables us to support a wider range of fundraising and provide even more support across all three hospital sites.”

People will still be able to donate to a ward, department, or hospital of their choice across Poole, Royal Bournemouth, or Christchurch.