A MACHINE for people with heart problems which can be used in patients' homes has been presented to Darlington Memorial Hospital.

The portable cardiac ultrasound system has been bought with a £28,000 contribution from the British Heart Foundation.

Other charities which helped to raise the £58,000 needed were the Mayor's charity funds, Friends of the Hospital, University of the Third Age, Holy Trinity Women's Fellowship, Glaxo, Barnard Castle Community Care, Bondgate Methodist Church, Trained Nurses League, the Evans Halshaw car dealership in Darlington and Darlington Hiking Club.

The scanner is about the size of a laptop. It helps doctors to diagnose cardiac abnormalities.

Patients can be scanned in intensive care, their own homes or at a GP's practice.

Jerry Murphy, clinical director for cardiology at Darlington, said: "This is a significant service development and investment that will make a huge difference to the diagnosis and management of cardiac patients in the Darlington area.

"We are very grateful to all those charities and groups which helped us buy this important piece of equipment."