Mayday cannot wait to bring more matrons onto its wards.

The hospital has one so-called "modern matron" and Nikki Luffingham, director of quality and deputy director of nursing, is eager to increase that number and confirmed funding has already been secured for two more. "It will be interesting and new," she said.

The matrons will not be hard to identify as their uniform is navy blue with white spots.

Nikki added: "It has all been a really good idea. It took everyone a while to get their head round the title, but they have a lot of street cred with patients and staff and we are delighted and very keen to bring more in."

It is hoped the highly skilled nurses will keep patients better informed and deal with any issues they may have.