A PARTNERSHIP project between Haslemere Community Hospital and town prep school St Ives has given patients a creative boost.

When the mural in the corridor leading into the minor injuries unit at the hospital deteriorated and it was not possible to restore it, Julia Hastings, the unit’s senior nurse practitioner, approached St Ives School, in Haslemere, and the League of Friends.

St Ives had previously provided six artworks created by pupils, which are displayed in the department that evolved from a school project, and was delighted to be able to showcase the talents of more of its students.

The League of Friends donated the frames for the artworks and Virgin Care, which leases the space from NHS Estates Property, repaired the corridor area and repainted it ready for the new display.

Virgin Care has managed the unit since 2012 on behalf of the NHS to provide treatment for cuts, sprains, minor fractures and other urgent, but not life-threatening injuries.

The 16 pupils paid a special visit to the hospital to see their framed artwork unveiled.

The 10 and 11 year olds created their designs from observational plant drawings as part of a lino printmaking project led by art teacher Verity Vinen and the hospital is so pleased with its new display, it has commissioned more to brighten up another corridor.

Verity said: “It was fantastic to see the girls’ prints unveiled and available to view by anyone visiting the minor injuries unit at the hospital. We were very proud to be able to help the hospital and hopefully, in a small way, help to brighten up peoples’ day.

“This project is at the heart of the ethos at St Ives school. We encourage skills such as creativity alongside a strong sense of charity, kindness and social responsibility.”

The girls followed their visit to the hospital with some festive fun at the school’s Christmas Fair, which was opened by Haslemere mayor Sahran Abeysundara.