A FLEDGLING plan to build a new Haslemere Hospital has been backed by new healthcare provider Virgin Care.

Richard Branson's Virgin group signed a £500m contract earlier this year that looks set to guarantee the future of the hospital after years of uncertainty.

But concern about the rising cost of repairs needed to keep the 100-year-old building fit for purpose has prompted supporters to investigate if building a state-of-the art facility within the grounds could now be the best way forward.

For full story, see this week's Liphook Herald.