Health Minister Nelson Bascome is to call on businesses and the community to help spruce up the Island's general hospital by sponsoring run-down wards.

He told The Royal Gazette that he was unhappy with the state of some of the wards at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital and wanted to see them refurbished and modernised.

But he said the job could be too big for Government coffers alone and suggested companies in Bermuda do their bit by offering a helping hand by acting as donors.

They could pay for the upgrading of a particular ward and become the sponsor of that area, or, if they preferred, they could just offer cash to help towards the total cost of the re-vamp.

Mr. Bascome said: "I really believe that we need to enhance the building. The entrance of the hospital has a brand new look, and the operating theatres and diet centre are up to par, but when you get on the wards they are in need of some modernising.

"I was there just a few weeks ago and I really noticed how the wards stood out when compared to the more modern areas. I think this is important and it is one area I would like to see improved.

"The wards really need money spent on them to make them as bright and clean and cheerful as the other parts of the hospital. It is where people are lying and recovering and I think how it looks is important.

"I think this is something a lot of people could be involved in.'' The Health Minister said he had already asked the Bermuda Hospitals Board to start looking at ways of attracting donors to offer funding.

Mr. Bascome added: "There are so many times where people help different charities, which is a very good thing, but I also think the hospital gets over-looked at times.

"All we would like is for people to act as donors. They could really make a difference to the surroundings of those people who are in hospital trying to get well again.

"I would ask all firms and members of the community to think about what contribution they could make. We have made inroads to enhancing some parts of the hospital, now it is time for the wards to be given the same treatment.'' A new $20 million wing, complete with state-of-the art technology, and entrance to the hospital were unveiled at the end of 1988.

The extension boasted computer technology throughout its departments and a more patient-friendly environment.

Included in it was diagnostic imaging and ultrasound rooms and the diabetes department, which comes equipped with a diabetes teaching room.

And on the top floor were six modern operating theatres.

However, in contrast to that, the wards are run-down, dull and in need of some urgent care and attention to help make recovery a little speedier for patients.

Anyone that can help should call the Bermuda Hospitals Board at the hospital on 236-2345.

Nelson Bascome HOSPITAL HOS