The annual spring reception is designed as a get-together for a variety of people such as nurses, health trust board members and representatives from the community.

Gilly Collinson, communication manager, said: “We have invited a cross section of guests as the hospital is a key focus of the community. This is just one opportunity to give a small glimpse at the huge range of expertise that exists here.”

The programme of events included a welcome address by trust board chairman Sir Michael Carlisle, who praised hospital staff for their hard work in what had been “a difficult year”.

He said: “We do look forward to improving our relationships locally. We want to be successful for our patients, staff and the community.

“We must also remind ourselves the trust is not just about Scarborough, but the wider area.”

Scarborough’s mayor, Coun Janet Jefferson, was joined by Steve Smith, mayor of Whitby and Eddie Holden, mayor of Filey, who were keen to find out about health care developments across the borough.