The family of a former patient on the Stroke unit at Watford General Hospital have donated £3,000 in his memory.

Following the death of Paul Thompson in February 2015, aged just 58, his family wanted to do something to thank the staff for the care he received while at the hospital.

Paul's widow, Leander, his family and many friends wrote a joint message to the hospital saying: "We wish to say thank you for every stage of Paul's care, in every ward, and to every member of staff we dealt with at the hospital.

"His care was truly amazing - which, in itself was a reason for us to be very thankful. What exceeded every expectation was the time and the care that staff showed to keep us informed at every stage.

"They patiently answered every question and never appeared hurried - even though we know they had usually already worked very long hours.

"We chose to make a gift to benefit the Stroke unit because Paul spent most of his time on this ward and we particularly wanted the ward staff to be able to use our donation for something that they needed to help care for others like Paul.

"Thank God for the NHS and particularly to Watford Hospital."

Dr Mike van der Watt, Medical Director at the hospital, said: "We would like to say a huge thank you to Paul’s family and friends the money is going to be used towards purchasing further equipment for the stroke ward, to continue their support to our patients."

Paul's two sons, Ian and Lee Thompson, are both running a half marathon in October 2015 to raise money for the Stroke Association and other family and friends are organising other fundraising events in the coming months to raise more money for the stroke unit.

To sponsor Ian and Lee visit www.justgiving.com/Lee-Thompson14/.