Sir, – Much has been reported about the downgrading of some services at the Friarage Hospital, Northallerton, but not enough is said about the improvements that are planned, specifically the MRI scanner.

The Friends of The Friarage, an independent charity run by volunteers, has undertaken to raise a minimum of £500,000 towards the total cost of £2m for this cause. The South Tees Hospitals Charity will raise the remaining £1.5m by public fundraising. The two organisations have been working together to enable this unified aim. Many have already contributed generously.

However, some have raised concerns which need addressing.

Firstly, questions are frequently raised about the future of the Friarage Hospital. I have been reassured by the senior officials of the South Tees NHS Foundation Trust that there are no plans to close the Friarage. Developing certain services and the provision of many core services will continue. The acquisition of an MRI scanner will enhance the facilities provided at this hospital obviating the current need for patients to travel to the James Cook University Hospital for this test.

Secondly, any fears that the money raised may be syphoned off to fund a scanner at James Cook University Hospital is unfounded. The Friends of the Friarage is dedicated to the Friarage and our constitution specifically limits its role to providing facilities at the Friarage Hospital and surrounding health centres in the Hambleton and Richmondshire District.

Also, it is our long-standing policy to release funds only after any equipment is installed, not before, thus ensuring that the equipment is located appropriately at the Friarage. I can guarantee that no funds collected by the Friends of the Friarage MRI scanner appeal will be released for a new scanner elsewhere.

Equally, the Friarage MRI scanner appeal launched by the South Tees Hospitals Charity is specific for this purpose solely. This means that the money raised by this appeal cannot legally be used anywhere apart from the Friarage and it is specific for an MRI scanner.

I hope this reassures the general public and it continues supporting this cause. We need the support of the public and the media to help our community. We aim to reach our target by the end of 2015.

Dr U SOMASUNDRAM

Chairman, Friends of the Friarage, Northallerton.