A HAMPSHIRE hospital received a special visitor yesterday after HRH the Countess of Wessex dropped in to officially open a new breast screening unit.

During her visit the Countess talked to staff, patients and local dignitaries at the Royal Hampshire County Hospital in Winchester.

The unit, which sees around 4,000 patients a year, was previously housed in temporary huts more than 40 years old.

After unveiling a special commemorative plaque, the Countess was presented with flowers by four-year-old Laura Dingley whose mum Ruth works as a radiographer at the hospital.

The Countess of Wessex said: "I'm delighted to be able to promote this activity. I wish there were more of them around the country."