A UNIQUE piece of art has been installed in the grounds of a County Durham hospital following a legacy donation of more than £25,000.

The Friends of Richardson Hospital, in Barnard Castle, originally commissioned the steel structure in 2012 with money they were instructed had to be spent on the hospital but not on medical equipment.

The volunteers then turned to sculptor, Michael Kusz, who agreed to design and make intricate piece for patients and visitors to enjoy.

Mr Kusz, of Reeth, in North Yorkshire, formed the main trunk out of steel and wrapped it in copper before adding the 384 hand-flamed painted leaves.

The artwork also features three starling birds in a nest while it is hoped real birds will be attracted to it.

The 60-year-old is in the final stages of completing the tree which will be officially unveiled at the hospital’s open morning to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the NHS, on Thursday, July 5.

“I have pulled out all the stops to make it the best I can,” Mr Kusz said. “It was a wonderful opportunity to be involved with the project.”

Friends’ secretary, Iris Hillery, said: "We are delighted that this project, which has been so long in the planning, is finally coming to fruition. As its completion coincides with the 70th anniversary event we hope that many people will come along to celebrate with us."