HISTORICAL artefacts from the Selby War Memorial Hospital will be preserved and refurbished before the new hospital opens.

NHS North Yorkshire and York have incorporated artefacts and objects from the Selby War Memorial Hospital’s legacy before it moves to the new site, including the war memorial stone, the foundation stone, and the original War Memorial arch sign.

Margaret Hewer, chair of Friends of Selby War Memorial Hospital, said: “We are delighted the artefacts from the old hospital are being preserved and re-homed, particularly the archway which is something many local people have been anxious to see retained. The Friends will proudly continue to fundraise for the new hospital and we look forward to it opening soon.”

The memorial stone, currently in the main reception of the old hospital, will be part of a landscaped roundabout outside the hospital, with a new memorial stone.

The metal archway has been refurbished, and sited in the internal courtyard, and the foundation stone will be placed with other commissioned artworks along a path around the new site.

The New Selby War Memorial Hospital will open in June. Selby District Council staff will relocate to the adjoined Civic Centre in August.

Jayne Brown, NHS North Yorkshire and York chief executive, said: “The community project staff have been working hard to make sure the history is well represented and preserved for patients, staff and visitors.

“We believe our plans are respectful and appropriate given the context of the new development, and we look forward to seeing it all unveiled.”