Widow donates 10 specialist chairs to cancer ward

Anne Hutchings was "over the moon" to thank the nurses in memory of her husband

A woman whose husband died of cancer has donated 10 specialist chairs to the oncology unit that treated him.

Anne Hutchings wanted to give something back to the nurses who cared for her husband Michael at Princess Elizabeth Hospital in Guernsey.

The reclining chairs are designed with wider arms to allow for easier insertion of drips and also have USB ports so patients can charge devices to watch films or listen to music while having treatment.

Mrs Hutchings said she was "over the moon" to be able to contribute to the Bulstrode Oncology Ward.

Anne said the nurses made the ward a "friendly and peaceful" place to be

Lead cancer nurse Lucy Coggan said the chairs in the oncology ward had not been updated for 10 years.

The new chairs are designed to accommodate patients who may be receiving treatment for up to eight hours and have a remote control reclining feature.

Mrs Hutchings also donated new furniture to the ward's family quiet room.

The purple and blue chairs are designed to match the Bluebell Wood theme

Mrs Hutchings' husband Michael died after having cancer several times.

She volunteered at the "wonderfully quiet and calming ward" while he was being treated, bringing teas and coffees to patients.

"The nurses are so wonderful," she said.

"Not just good at their jobs... but they are always cheerful and welcoming and friendly."

She said it felt "fantastic" to see the new furniture in place.

"I am over the moon. I am so grateful to these girls," she said.

"I think Michael would have loved one of these chairs... I would have had to peel him out of them to take him home."