Last updated 19:24, Thursday, 20 November 2008

NORTH Cumbria’s hospital staff have transformed the way they stamp out the spread of infection.

They have been named among the best in the country by inspectors.

The Healthcare Commission made unannounced visits to the West Cumberland Hospital, Whitehaven, and Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle. During the two-day inspection in August, they assessed patient areas and spoke to staff.

The visit was part of a programme of secret checks at all 172 acute hospitals in England. Each was then rated using its traffic light system.

North Cumbria University Hospitals NHS Trust, which runs the Whitehaven and Carlisle sites, was given a green light – meaning no breaches of hygiene standards.

Medical director Simon Raimes said: “A year ago we were getting poor reports and it was apparent that we had lots of people trying hard but there was no co-ordination.”

He said clear roles and leadership had been put in place alongside new hygiene measures.

Patients and visitors are also encouraged to report cleanliness concerns to staff.