WORK is progressing steadily on a unique project to provide better care for heart patients and their families in the south.

The steel frame structure for the Rotary Heartbeat House expansion was erected early last week, little more than a month into the construction.

The £500,000 scheme for Wessex Heartbeat, which is being overseen by construction specialists ROK, will provide free respite care for the families of heart patients at Southampton General Hospital and a much-needed headquarters for the 13-year-old charity.

Expanding the facility involved demolishing two neighbouring properties in Tremona Road, Southampton.

Companies including Elliotts, Brandon Tool Hire, RMC, Mowlem, Dorset Soils & Aggregates and Alltrades have donated materials and equipment used in the construction.

Construction is still on target for completion in September.

Meanwhile, in recognition of his continued support for heart care, prominent Southampton businessman Stuart Mason-Elliott has been made gold friend of Wessex Heartbeat.

Mr Mason-Elliott, the managing director of Northam-based Elliott Brothers builders' merchants, becomes the 15th person or organisation to receive the honour in the charity's 13-year history.

Heartbeat chief executive Paul Barlow, pictured right, was on hand to award Mr Mason-Elliott, left, the recognition.

Mr Barlow said: "Stuart has long been a supporter of Heartbeat and in particular has helped us with our project to expand Rotary House."

Work is well under way on the £500,000 expansion of Rotary House. It should be completed in September and will offer greater free respite care for the families of heart patients in Southampton General Hospital's cardiac unit.