DESPITE the recent uncertainties over the future of Cirencester Hospital the local communtiy is continuing to rally to its support.

The League of Friends, made up of volunteers, announced this week it has raised £100,000 in the past two years - enough money to buy new endoscopic equipment and two new heart monitors.

And the League says it will continue to raise funds for the hospital even after private firm UK Specialist Hospitals takes over in August 2008.

NHS cuts had put Cirencester Hospital at risk but local trust bosses were able to secure a contract with the private group.

Chairman of the Friends Norman Whereat paid tribute to all the supporters who have helped contribute to the ongoing appeals.

He said: "This is great for the people of Cirencester - the support we get is really wonderful and it's great news for the hospital."

The endoscopic equipment has cost £90,000. An endoscope is a long, flexible tube with a camera and light on it which can be swallowed. In particular, it can be used to diagnose intestinal cancers.

The lightweight monitors, worth £10,000, are used to monitor patients' hearts and can be used all the time because they are portable.

Mr Whereat said he did not fear for the future of the hospital and was hopeful the changes would be for the better.

He said: "As far as we are concerned the hospital will still be there next year and there will be Cirencester patients there.

"The future of the hospital is safe and the Friends will always be there to support because we are needed by the people of Cirencester."

The next project for the Friends is to buy replacement X-ray equipment at the hospital.

A spokesman for Gloucestershire Primary Care Trust said: "This is wonderful news for the hospital.

"The League of Friends fundraising efforts have brought so many benefits to local patients and this latest donation is a real boost to the hospital."