FRIMLEY Park Hospital is appealing for the return of borrowed walking aids from past patients in a move that could save thousands of pounds.

Every year the hospital issues thousands of metal crutches, walking frames and sticks every year to support patients recovering from treatment, yet many are never returned.

Lauren Chapman, physiotherapy manager at Frimley Park, said: “We know that the swift return of crutches and other walking aids is often not your highest priority as you recover from illness or injury.

“Indeed, many end up being forgotten as they are stored in cupboards, lofts or garages.

“However, these aids are always needed by other patients and we have to pay to replace each crutch, stick or walking frame that is not returned.”

Each walking aid comes with a label about how to return it and they can be dropped off at any time of the day.

For anyone who wishes to return their NHS walking aids, collection points can be found at the physiotherapy department at Frimley Hospital and Ascot’s Heatherwood Hospital between now and March 6.

For any further queries, more information can be found by calling 01276 604444.