Milestone year for hospital that has treated two million patients

A HOSPITAL that married a Coronation Street star on her deathbed is celebrating its 35th birthday.

BMI The Alexandra Hospital in Cheadle has treated more than two million patients since it opened its doors in November 1981.

Among those was cobbles legend Pat Phoenix, who played Elsie Tanner on the ITV soap, who married Tony Booth at the hospital days before she lost her battle with cancer.

The Alex is the largest private hospital outside London and is in fact built on 11-acres of land originally owned by Agatha Christie’s grandson.

It is also the only hospital in the region where patients are greeted by a concierge.

Val Tudor from Denton has worked for The Alex since the day it opened.

The 66-year-old is currently PA to the directors of Clinical Services and Operations.

She said: “Over the years, the hospital has affectionately become known as The Alex and I think it’s fair to say it’s the friendly atmosphere combined with the enormous expertise at the hospital that makes it so special – it’s our people who make it like that. We build up really good relationships with patients, particularly the ones who come here for a number of visits or over a long period of time.

“I’ve been here 35 years now, I almost feel like I’ve grown up with The Alex and I am so proud to be a part of it!”

Today, the hospital has nearly 600 permanent members of staff and more than 600 consultants providing treatment to insured, private and NHS patients. Many of them are world-renowned for their skill and knowledge.

It offers a wide range of services including orthopaedic surgery, spinal surgery, neurosurgery, cardiology and cancer care, as well as an Urgent Care Centre and a private GP service.

The hospital has 171 beds, with all rooms offering the privacy and comfort of en-suite facilities, satellite TV and telephone.

Staff and patients marked the milestone anniversary with an afternoon tea party also attended by MP Mary Robinson. The choir from nearby Cheadle Hulme High School welcomed guests with songs and a rendition of Happy Birthday.

Ms Robinson said: “Since opening its doors, The Alexandra Hospital has not only become a flagship healthcare provider but also a community landmark for the people of Cheadle.

“I was delighted to join current and former staff and patients at the celebration, which marks a significant milestone in the hospital’s history.

“The esteem in which BMI The Alexandra is held is testament to the dedication of its staff and the excellent quality of care it has provided for the past 35 years.”