THE Dilke Hospital League of Friends has appointed a new chairman following the resignation through ill health of Douglas Marfell.

She is Ruth Norman, JP, who until retirement in 1993 was manager of community services in the Forest of Dean. She has also served as secretary to the League of Friends for the past four years.

The Friends have also agreed to appoint Mr Marfell as their first president.

During Mr Marfell's time with the organisation he saw a number of changes, including the formation of the Health Authority and the Severn NHS Trust, much rebuilding and the introduction of new technology.

He has been associated with the League of Friends since 1965 and in 1970 was elected vice chairman. He became chairman in 1982.

Hospital manager Jeanette Giles said: "Mr Marfell will be missed and we wish to thank him for his support to the management and staff."