Doctors, nurses and ambulance staff have all been taking part in clinical simulation days at a new accident and emergency department.

The days were part of the testing of the new department at Northwick Park Hospital currently being completed by contractor Balfour Beatty.

More than 100 people took part in the simulations to help ensure new £21million department will function effectively.

Last week the Harrow Times was given a tour of the new facilities which are due to be completed in the October this year.

Director of Operations for The North West London Hospitals NHS Trust Tina Benson, said: "The clinical simulation days organised with the help of Balfour Beatty have given our staff a great head start for the opening of the new A&E.

"The location of the new A&E will mean that patients have improved access to other emergency services, such as acute assessment, intensive treatment units, operating theatres and wards.

"For patients with a life-threatening emergency, everything they need will be closer by."

Balfour Beatty project manager Robert Bradley said: "We have developed a close working partnership with the Trust during the project.

"In addition to the successful clinical simulation days, each week, over the last five months, staff have had an opportunity to tour the site to familiarise themselves with the space.

"It has been invaluable to all parties to engage with the project, as we work together to deliver a state-of-the-art facility that will benefit the residents of Brent, Harrow and the surrounding areas."