Gosport War Memorial Hospital celebrated its 100th birthday on Sunday 23 April 2023.
In 1921 Field Marshal Haig laid the foundation stone for the Hospital and on 28 April 1923, the hospital was opened by the local M.P, Sir John Davidson.
Now, 100 years later, and in the NHS’s 75th year, the Trust marked this most special of anniversaries by laying a commemorative stone. Dedications were given by trust chair Lynne Hunt, Tim Davey, Captain of HMS Collingwood, and Colonel Brian Carter of the Royal Marines.
Lynne Hunt, chair of Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, said: "Long before my current role as chair I was a nurse and I can tell you, with some certainty, that local hospitals such as this are not just a vital part of the NHS but hugely important cornerstones for the communities they serve.
"I am hugely proud to be here to mark this very special birthday alongside my colleagues from the Royal Marines and Royal Navy as well our amazing League of Friends. Today is about celebrating all the good that this hospital, and countless staff and volunteers, have contributed over the last 100 years."
Over the past 100 years the hospital has undergone a number of changes. This included major refits in the 1960s and
1990s. In 2020 the Trust spent £3.4million pounds completely redesigning the Hospital's Poppy and Rose wards, removing the previous dormitory format and replacing them with dedicated ensuite rooms for patients.
The hospital is core part of the local community with Lynne adding "The investment ensures that the hospital continues to be at the cutting edge of care and a point of pride for the staff, patients and families who use its services."