Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust has opened a new Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC), with local footballer Chris Tamara unveiling the building.

Joining the Trust’s chief executive, Len Richards, and chair, Keith Ramsay, Chris Kamara - who was awarded Freedom of the City earlier this year - cut the ribbon to declare the state-of-the-art facility officially open.

Richards said: “I’m delighted that we have officially opened our Community Diagnostic Centre. There is no doubt that it will help more people to receive the tests and scans they need to speed up the diagnosis of illnesses like cancer and heart disease ultimately helping to improve health outcomes for our communities.

“A whole host of people from the Trust and a number of external partners have worked extremely hard to bring this project to fruition and I’d like to thank them all.”

Located at Westgate Retail Park in Wakefield, the CDC was chosen for its accessibility, offering free parking and easy access by public transport.

Since it opened its doors in March, the facility has already conducted over 20,000 tests.

Boasting a bright and modern feel, the CDC provides planned outpatient tests, including x-rays, ultrasounds, CT, MRI and bone-density scans, as well as blood tests, dermoscopic imaging, cardio-respiratory tests and some ophthalmology (eye) tests.

Tests and scans for emergency and inpatients will continue to be provided in hospital.

Kamala said: “It’s a real privilege to be here with you today to open this diagnostic centre in the heart of Wakefield. I’m passionate about supporting my local hospital Trust because I know how much it means to the people of Wakefield and surrounding areas. I hope everyone will share my pride today as we celebrate having a new state-of-the-art healthcare facility in our city.”