THE mortuary at an East Lancashire hospital has been criticised for its 'harsh and uninviting' appearance.

A call has been made for improvements to the building at Queen's Park Hospital, Blackburn, following an official visit by members of Blackburn, Hyndburn and Ribble Valley Community Health Council (CHC).

The hospital treats patients from all over East Lancashire.

They said the appearance of the stand-alone building, which has facilities to hold 40 dead patients, was 'harsh and uninviting.'

Their visit report said that while the mortuary was not unpleasant, there should be a series of improvements, including:

The provision of plants outside the building to soften the approach and its appearance.

A portable ramp to allow wheelchair access to the mortuary.

Pictures on the walls to soften the environment.

Alternative forms of lighting to allow the room to be dimmed.

The provision of background music where appropriate.

The CHC also visited the mortuary at Blackburn Royal Infirmary. Members said it provided a 'sensitive environment' where deceased patients could be seen by relatives.

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