Making their own brand of Christmas music, a fantastic trio tuned up recently to celebrate the switching on of the Christmas tree lights in the atrium at Forth Valley Royal Hospital.

The skirl of the pipes from Alec Souter heralded proceedings and was followed by Ruth Mackay (clarsach) and Ollie Coster (cello) who accompanied singers from the local community.  The audience was then treated to a programme of musical entertainment from two choirs – NHS Forth Valley’s Women and Children’s choir and the Nurses Choir.

The tree is provided by the Friends of Forth Valley Royal Hospital who also donated a number of other trees for public areas across the hospital.

NHS Forth Valley Chairman Alex Linkston said: “The Christmas trees really create a festive atmosphere within the hospital and we are incredibly grateful to the Friends of Forth Valley Royal. Visiting hospitals can be a bit overwhelming for a lot of people and a little Christmas spirit in the form of Christmas trees and entertainment can help brighten up the lives of patients, staff and visitors alike.”

Bob Ness, Chairman of Trustees of the Friends of Forth Valley Royal Hospital added: “My personal thanks are extended to all our musicians, singers and choirs, and to the general public who came along to join us in what was a very uplifting evening.

“The Friends will continue not only to support Forth Valley Royal Hospital, but also the four community hospitals in Falkirk, Stirling, Bo’ness and Clackmannanshire.  We would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a healthy and prosperous New Year.”