The Duchess of Gloucester has opened a new £2.5m day case unit at Epsom Hospital.

Staff from the unit, which treats patients who need small operations without having to stay overnight and those who need endoscopic procedures, took the duchess on a guided tour before she revealed a plaque marking its official opening.

The event on Thursday, September 27, was attended by the Mayor of Epsom and Ewell, Councillor Christine Long, and MP Chris Grayling.

Matthew Hopkins, trust chief executive said: "It was an absolute honour and privilege to welcome HRH to Epsom Hospital. 

"This is the biggest improvement project in years and fantastic news for our patients. 

"The unit is much bigger than the old one, meaning more patients can get the treatment and tests they need faster than before. 

"We’ve designed it around the needs of our patients with an emphasis on ensuring patients receive the utmost privacy and dignity."