HEALTH equipment for the Gambia donated by Wallasey GPs is expected to save hundreds of lives.

NHS Wirral’s recycled health equipment sent for patients abroad in May 2010 was so well received doctors from abroad have asked for further supplies.

The equipment has already helped hundreds of patients in Gambia and with the top-up order scheduled is expected to help thousands more in the future.

Advanced nurse practitioner Sister Patsy Dodd, of Liscard Group Practice at Victoria Central Health Centre, said the equipment will include diabetic instrument kits.

Food for premature babies will also be sent abroad and will help to keep babies alive.

Dr Ousman Nyan, chief executive officer at the Royal Victoria Teaching Hospital in Banjul, said: “Thank you so much to the NHS for all their help and efforts in co-ordinating this kind donation - we’re also so grateful to the sponsors for paying the transportation costs for this life saving equipment.”

Donations from local practices in collaboration with Wallasey and Royden Revolve Rotary Clubs made it possible for the two export orders.

The equipment could no longer be used at Wallasey practices and was destined for the skip – but will be put to good use at namesake hospital “Royal Victoria Teaching Hospital” in Gambia.

The only hurdle to now overcome is transporting the goods on the 3,000 mile trip which costs about £750 per trip. Once again Rotary clubs of Wallasey and Royden Resolve stepped in again with donations.

Thanking the Rotary clubs for their donations, Dr Shyamal Mukherjee, medical director for Wirral, Cheshire and Warrington, said: “The NHS is again thrilled to be able to help patients across the world by recycling disused health equipment to a hospital with almost the same name.

"Many patients thousands of miles away will benefit through this fabulous idea.”