Until now, there has been only one scanner for Angus, available through the cardiology service, which has been unable to cope with the number of patients, mostly elderly, who need such imaging.

The new echocardiogram at Stracathro will complement the existing service and do away with the need for so many patients to go to Ninewells or Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. The equipment was accepted on behalf of the hospital by Dr Greg Cox and Lynda Marshall, clinical specialist sonographer.

Mrs Ruth Leslie-Melville, chairwoman of the Friends, said they were well on the way to raising a further £22,500 for an argon coagulator for the hospital. She said the equipment would enhance the service available from the endoscopy unit at Stracathro, speeding up diagnosis and treatment for patients while also freeing up appointment time in Ninewells Hospital, helping to reduce waiting lists in Dundee.