Newham University Hospital has celebrated 35 years of helping sick and injured people.

Newham Recorder: The book signed by Queen Elizabeth II at the opening of Newham University Hospital. Picture: Barts HealthThe book signed by Queen Elizabeth II at the opening of Newham University Hospital. Picture: Barts Health (Image: Barts Health)

The hospital, in Glen Road, Plaistow, was officially opened by the Queen on December 14, 1983 - marking the occasion by signing a book.

Since then, the hospital - formerly known as Newham General - has expanded to accommodate additional maternity beds, a special care baby unit, a rehabilitation department and an academic centre.

In April 2012, it joined with four other east London hospitals to become Barts Health NHS Trust.

Managing director Tony Halton said: “This is a time for us to celebrate the past 35 years and all that has been achieved. It’s also a chance to look forward to our 40th birthday.

“I am very proud to work at Newham Hospital and I look forward to working with staff into 2019 and beyond to further improve our hospital.”