THE chairman of the trust which manages Andover and Winchester hospitals Trust has praised businesses and volunteers for supporting its 12 Days of Christmas campaign.

In a break from tradition clinical areas at Andover War Memorial Hospital and Winchester's Royal Hampshire County Hospital were not decked out for Christmas.

This made them easier to keep clean.

But trust chairman Mike Gretton pointed out there were plenty of festive touches: "We were donated brand new Christmas trees for our non-clinical areas, gifts were bought or supplied by local businesses for our patients, and there was entertainment too.

"In the spirit of the season there were delicious things to eat - mince pies, luxury Christmas cake and chocolates.

"We know that being in hospital over Christmas is not ideal so I am really grateful to all those businesses and volunteers who helped out. It made a huge difference and really brightened up the stay for our patients and our duty staff."

He added: "As well as the support we've had from the community, "I am thrilled that our patients and visitors understood and appreciated why our wards weren't decorated.

"They thought our 12 Days of Christmas theme was marvellous."

Contributors included Andover Light Orchestra with entertainment for patients; Sweet & Maxwell publishers, presents for patients at Andover; Stannah Management Services, Andover, £50 towards presents for patients; the Mayor of Test Valley, Cllr Pam Mutton, Christmas Day visit; Test Valley Brass, musical entertainment for patients.