STAFF at Sheppey Community Hospital today received a royal seal of approval from the Duke of York. Prince Andrew flew to the island to unveil a commemorative plaque at the hospital's official opening ceremony.

Around a hundred people gathered outside the main entrance to catch a glimpse of the Duke as he arrived by helicopter.

He was greeted by the Vice Lord Lieutenant of Kent, the Viscount De L'Isle, and a welcoming committee including Cllr Mick Constable, the Mayor of Swale, and Cllr Frank Gibson, chairman of Kent County Council.

He was then taken on a tour of the hospital's two wards, Minster and Harty, where he chatted informally to patients and staff about the facilities and care at the hospital which opened six months ago.

His visit, which lasted about 90 minutes, ended with a speech and the unveiling of a plaque in the reception. He said: "From my short time here, it is quite obvious that the spirit that I have heard about in the former hospital has been brought across here and has grown even more.

"I would like to congratulate you on what you have achieved. I think this is an outstanding facility and I wish everybody, whether patients, staff or friends, every success in looking after it and making it the wonderful place that it is."

Gillian Sainsbury, community hospital services manager, said everyone had been impressed by the Duke's attitude.

She said: "I was surprised by how informal he was, but it was nice. It is quite pleasant to see someone who is genuinely interested take time to speak to the staff and patients."