PARISH councillors have added a splash of colour outside the entrance to Leighton Hospital after donating a rainbow bench.

Minshull Vernon and District Parish Council commissioned the bench to be displayed at the medical complex's main entrance as a way of saying thank you to local NHS staff and key workers for their hard work throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

It funded the bench, which has now been installed as a permanent reminder of the difficult times the local community has faced in the pandemic.

Chair of the parish council, Les Horne, said: "I'm sure that everybody really appreciates all the effort that everyone is putting in to fighting this virus, and looking after all the everyday patients. They're doing a fantastic job.

"The bench is just a small token to say a huge thank you on behalf of the local people around Leighton."

James Sumner, Chief Executive of Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust added: "We would like to say a big thank you to the council for this kind and colourful gesture, as well as to our local community for their ongoing support.

"Our staff, as well as all other key workers, have done an incredible job throughout the pandemic and this bench will serve as a long-lasting reminder of their care, compassion and resilience during a very challenging time."

The thank you bench was built by Fabrications North East Ltd and has been designed to last for a quarter of a century.