A HALF a million pound dialysis unit for kidney patients across North Devon has been opened in South Molton after a two-year fundraising campaign.
The unit is on the site of the town's community hospital, chosen because of its accessibility, and has already been used by people from places including Winsford.
Previously, patients might have been able to go to the small portable building in Barnstaple, but the main option was trips to Exeter.
The new unit has nine dialysis chairs and can be viewed by the public at open days on August 5 and September 2.
South Molton League of Friends inspired the community to support the fundraising appeal to the tune of £275,000.
To this was added £165,000 from the Department of Health and £27,000 earmarked for kidney services in North Devon. There was also a £30,000 bequest.
League of friends chairman Mary Moore said: "We are so pleased that the unit is now up and running.
"We recognised that there was a need for a second dedicated dialysis unit for the area and so decided to appeal for this very large amount of money.
"However, as usual, everyone pulled out the stops and the money came flooding in - a real example of people power.
"On behalf of South Molton League of Friends, I would like to thank everyone across North Devon who has helped us."
The unit opened its doors last week but the appeal - which brought the project in on time and within budget - will not close officially until August 10.