STAFF have checked in to Fairfield Hospital's newest ward.

The Medical Investigations Unit (MIU) - Ward 3A - is now open to cater for short stay patients.

It has helped take the pressure off acute beds needed by those arriving, for example, via accident and emergency and GP referrals.

Ward manager, Senior Sister Josie Fletcher said: "The aim is to provide a short stay facility for patients, for those coming in for a variety of conditions for which they may need to stay in for just one day, and up to five days before being discharged."