Just the ticket for children at Airedale Hospital

Airedale Hospital has secured a £1,000 donation to help create a games zone within its new Pacer train.

Airedale Hospital & Community Charity, which won the carriage through a government competition, received the funding from the Building Futures scheme, which supports organisations working with the under-18s.

The NHS Trust is set to convert the carriage into an innovative multifunctional space for the hospital and community, with a specific focus on younger patients.

Airedale NHS Foundation Trust charity manager, Jodie Hearnshaw, said: “The carriage will be located on the hospital site and will include dining, social and sensory spaces that can benefit various groups but with a specific focus on the younger generation.

“Persimmon’s funding will enable us to create a gaming zone which will include a television and gaming consoles. We hope the carriage will also offer the opportunity for sensory therapy using lights, sounds, textures and colours.

“The Pacer train is an amazing resource for the hospital and patients and the support of businesses like Persimmon Homes will give the retired carriage a new lease of life and purpose – we are very grateful.”

Christopher Hull, managing director for Persimmon Homes West Yorkshire, said: “The Pacer train is an amazing and unique space for the younger patients at Airedale Hospital. We were very happy to support their transformation project.”