THE future of a much-loved shop run by hospital volunteers has been secured - despite it being "in a more competitive environment".

Colchester Hospital bosses have confirmed the League of Friends' shop will continue to trade in a new location at the hospital once work to transform the main entrance is complete.

The organisation, which has run a shop within the existing reception area since the hospital opened in 1985, and before that in the old Severalls Hospital, is set to sign a new lease.

It will be based in a new unit on the ground floor of the two-storey extension being built this summer.

Frank Jordan, chairman of the Colchester League of Hospital Friends, said: "We are looking forward to continuing our long association with the hospital and the challenge of providing the same excellent service to staff and patients in what will be a more competitive environment.

“Over some 60 years we have contributed many thousands of pounds to wards and departments and our hope is that we will, with support from patients, staff and the public, be able to continue to do so for many more years to come."

Nick Hulme, chief executive of East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT), which runs Colchester Hospital,

added: “We have a long and happy relationship with the League of Friends at Colchester Hospital who have for the past 60 years supported our patients, their families and staff with their generosity and time.

“We’re delighted that relationship will continue and the League of Friends will be part of the exciting transformation of our hospital that will create a more modern, welcoming and safe environment for patients, visitors and staff.”

The multi-million pound revamp of the hospital’s main entrance will include the creation of a new reception area, Marks and Spencer, Costa Coffee and WH Smith.

While construction is underway the League of Friends will be trading in a temporary unit outside the front of the building.