HEALTH Secretary Jeremy Hunt has visited Manorlands.

He was shown round the Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice and met staff and patients. He also saw some technological innovations the charity is involved in to enhance access to end-of-life care.

Keighley MP Kris Hopkins, who accompanied him, tweeted afterwards: “Thanks to Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt for taking the time to visit our very special Manorlands.”

Sue Ryder this month welcomed an announcement in Chancellor George Osborne’s Autumn Statement that charitable hospices would be able to claw back VAT. The charity has been campaigning for three years for the move, which nationally will be worth up to £4 million.

Hospice director, Lizzie Procter, said: “Kris Hopkins has always been a very dedicated supporter of Manorlands and we cannot thank him enough for his continued backing and for inviting the Secretary of State for Health to the hospice to see first-hand the incredible care Sue Ryder provides.”