Bath Royal United Hospital recognised with Centre of Excellence award

Amanda Sherwood (centre) from the Paget's Association presented the award to RNHRD staff

A hospital has been recognised as the first Centre of Excellence in the south west for its treatment and research into Paget's disease.

Bath's Royal National Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases (RNHRD) received the accolade from the charity, Paget's Association.

The department was able to fund staff research time with a legacy donation.

A consultant rheumatologist from the department said the team was "extremely pleased" to receive the award.

Paget's disease affects the normal repair and renewal cycle of bones, causing them to become weakened and possibly deformed. Some sufferers experience chronic pain.

According to the NHS, the condition is fairly common in the UK, particularly in older people.

Patients at the RNHRD are seen in a monthly metabolic bone disease clinic.

'Improve the outlook'

It can offer scans, x-rays and blood tests on site, and patients needing treatment can be helped at the centre's dedicated infusion unit.

A nurse specialist, physiotherapy and occupational therapy teams are also able to provide help.

Dr Sarah Hardcastle said: "We are extremely pleased to be receiving this award in recognition of the care we provide to our patients with Paget's disease, and our involvement in Paget's disease research.

"We look forward to working with the Paget's Association to continue to improve the outlook for patients with this condition in the future."