SOUTH Somerset's MP has welcomed an announcement of nearly £80million in funding for Musgrove Park Hospital.

The local NHS is to receive new Government investment to support its Sustainability and Transformation Plan.

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The Somerset STP will receive around £79.5million enabling them to replace outdated theatres, endoscopy and critical care facilities.

It also includes the provision of an Interventional Radiology Hybrid Theatre that will enable minimally invasive surgery.

The new facilities, based largely at Musgrove Park Hospital, will provide a better environment for patients and doctors as well as increasing efficiency and capacity of the services.

The investment is part of the biggest NHS infrastructure expansion for a decade.

Marcus Fysh said: "I’m really pleased about this as it’s an example of the Department of Health listening and responding to the needs of our area.

"There is good news about NHS pay too but this is specific help for improvements that our local doctors want to deliver.

"I have talked to Jeremy Hunt about the need for capital investment and I know the NHS Foundation Trust have too and I’m now looking forward to see the new facilities take shape."