A FUNDRAISING appeal for the new BEACH building has hit a major donation milestone.

University Hospitals Dorset NHS charity has extended thanks to everyone who has donated to the £1.5million appeal to transform Royal Bournemouth Hospital.

Now £100,000 has been raised through the fundraiser.

The money raised from the appeal will go towards vital equipment for the six-storey building.

The new building will see a new critical care unit, a dedicated floor for children, and a new maternity unit.

It is estimated 4,400 women will benefit from an improved birth experience from the new maternity unit.

Staff and residents across Dorset have been waiting more than 30 years for an improved maternity unit.

Jess Tyler, fundraising manager, said: “It’s been great to see people in our local community coming together to raise funds to make long-lasting differences to the experience of everybody across Dorset who depends on our local hospitals.

"We’ve already seen a number of community groups and businesses choose us as their chosen charity of the year, people throwing themselves into amazing challenges of their own, and generous supporters phoning to donate.

"It’s fantastic to see so many people backing The BEACH Appeal.

"Everybody really can get involved."

Donations can be made via the UHD website.