The latest piece of hi-tech medical equipment arrived in Brentwood by crane.

The giant magnet, which forms part of the new Magnetic Resonance Imager (MRI) was hoisted into position at the Essex Nuffield Hospital, giving it the only such permanent specialist facility in the area.

The MRI scanner uses magnetic fields and radio waves to scan parts of the body and aid early diagnosis without the need for x-rays.

It will be controlled by computer and operated by experienced technicians, with films interpreted by a consultant radiologist.

Radiology manager Andrew Milne said: 'In the past mobile units have been used, but with the increasing use of MRI as a diagnostic technique we believe this investment is well worthwhile to provide patients with such facilities at their local hospital.

'Work is well underway to prepare the specialist room in the hospital which will host the scanner and we are anticipating that it will be completed by mid-May. This will be a welcome addition to the Essex Nuffield Hospital and confirms our commitment to providing the latest facilities, when applicable, in investigative medicine.''

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