SEXUAL health outpatients clinics in East Lancashire have received a £106,000 boost from the Government.

East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust has been given the money from the Department of Health to improve facilities at Genito-Urinary Medicine clinics at Blackburn Royal Infirmary and Burnley General Hospital.

The cash will be used to refurbish departments and to introduce a new computer suite, which will enable information to be shared between the two centres.

Lynn Greenwood, head of nursing for outpatients at the Trust, said: "This is great news. We in East Lancashire are very lucky to be awarded these funds which will enable us to improve facilities for patients."

Steve Penfold, performance improvement manager for the Lancashire and Cumbria Strategic Health Authority who was involved in prioritising bids before they were submitted to the Government, said: "The Department of Health received £70million-worth of bids for £15 million funds.

"East Lancs GUM services have reduced waiting times from six weeks to 48 hours in the past year which has taken significant work. The news represents a 'thank-you' and will be a boost to morale for the service."

Dr Sedki Gayed, Consultant in Genito-Urinary Medicine said: "I am very happy to hear that we have been successful.

"With the additional funds we will be able to improve the environment for patients and introduce a modern patient information system.

"This will benefit patients and staff and is a step forward for GUM services in East Lancashire."