THE Queen is pondering the future name of Bolton's new multi-million pound hospital.

The closure of Bolton Royal Infirmary means Bolton loses it "royal" title but, as already reported, moves are afoot to secure it for the future.

Barbara Peacock, Bolton Hospitals Trust chairman, told a public liaison meeting that steps have already been taken to secure the "royal" title.

Mrs Peacock said: "The decision ultimately lies with Her Majesty but, as we have already stated, it is our hope that the name will live on in the new development and will be incorporated into its future title."

Beverley Andrew, director of operations, said the Trust had been told it would not be given the Royal title until all services had been moved on to the one site.

The transfer of services into the new £45 million site culminated today with the opening of the new, state-of-the-art accident and emergency unit.

The future of the Bolton Royal site will be decided by the NHS Executive based in Leeds. The sale of the property passes into the Department of Health's hands and the majority of money raised is expected to be used to offset the investment in the Bolton General development.

"It will be a very sad day for all of us when the For Sale signs go up outside the Bolton Royal Infirmary," said Mrs Peacock.

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