An extra £48 million funding for the Isle of Wight NHS Trust is "good news" says local MP

An extra £48 million funding for the Isle of Wight NHS Trust is "good news", according to the local MP.

Bob Seeley was speaking following the announcement on the new funding by the Prime Minister

The funding is part of £850 million that will be distributed to 20 hospitals across England to pay for upgrades to outdated facilities.

St Mary's Hospital is the only in the South East to get any of this money, with the vast majority being concentrated in the Midlands and the North.

The Prime Minister (2nd left) made the announcement on a visit with Health Secretary Matt Hancock (left) Credit: Darren Staples/PA Wire

Local MP Bob Seeley said the money would "improve the patient experience". Credit: House of Commons

Local MP Bob Seeley thanked the trust's staff and said he was delighted the government is beginning to listen to the Island more.

He said the funding will be used by the trust to become a national leader in telemedicine, as well as integrated IT.

Opposition parties on the Island have welcomed the funding, but said it isn't enough.

The announcement follows the release of the Isle of Wight NHS Trust annual report, showing a deficit of £22.9 million.

A spokesperson for the trust said their financial challenge "remains significant."