MP RISHI Sunak has visited the Friarage Hospital to thank doctors, nurses and support staff for their “outstanding” work during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Member of Parliament for Richmond said he wanted to show his appreciation in person for their dedication and commitment over the last four months.

Keeping to the current rules on social distancing and the wearing of face masks in hospital, he spoke to a group of Friarage workers – from a range of disciplines and departments – about their experiences in caring for patients.

He told them that what they had done during the pandemic was heroic.

Mr Sunak added that local people would always be in their debt for their outstanding service to the community in the most difficult of circumstances.

He said: “The Friarage has played a vital role during the crisis and will continue to do so as the number of Covid-19 patients treated in the area continues to reduce and non-emergency treatments are stepped up again.”

Mr Sunak also spoke to senior doctors about their plans to develop services at the Friarage following the welcome news – announced in April - that the hospital’s urgent treatment centre is to remain open 24/7.

The 24/7 option for the hospital had been the one most favoured by consultation respondents.