A STONE memorial is to be created to commemorate the history of the former Cottage Hospital in Haydock.

The feature is to include the entrance arch which was part of the front door porch to the hospital.

The arch will be reconstructed into a brick structural wall replicating the brickwork as far as possible of the original building.

Plans say the structure will be approximately 3.6 metres by 2.1 metres and the memorial is set to be on open grass land, with a surround of salvaged natural stone paving.

The Star reported in July that the hospital's history was be commemorated in displays, including a time capsule containing annual reports which were put into a glass bottle on its opening day in 1886.

Haydock councillor Martin Bond had secured pieces of the hospital's history following discussions with landowner Issam Jabrow.

The foundation stone of the hospital was laid by Mrs Josiah Evans on August 7, 1886, who owned most of the coal mines in Haydock and was a great benefactor to the village.

Official records state Florence Nightingale had requested copies of the hospital plan and in a letter dated June 10, 1885, made observations on every detail and suggested improvements for the hospital, which got her overall approval.

The land was donated by Lord Newton along with a piece of land to be used for the recreation of the patients.

The colliers of Haydock raised £290 by a halfpenny a week from their wages and, in consideration it was decided that the miners of Haydock, Parr and Pewfall could be treated free of charge and given free treatment for accidents.

Following several local colliery closures - coupled with new safety measures imposed on owners by the Coal Mines Act which meant less accidents – the hospital was eventually opened up to all residents from Haydock and surrounding areas in 1930, until its eventual closure in 1975.

The building was bulldozed in 2016 and earlier this year plans to build five houses at the Clipsley Lane site were given the nod.

Planning permission has been granted for the memorial after proposals were submitted in July.