For Roger Lowe, the switch-on of the MRI scanner in Bradford represents the fulfilment of a four-year dream which signals a giant leap forward in patient care in the district.

The head of imaging at Bradford's hospitals believes the new scanner - the only one of its kind in Europe - will make a major difference to the amount of information doctors have about patients which will translate into better treatment.

About 2,500 patients will be scanned each year, more than eight times the number of people who have previously had access to the technology. It will play a major role in the investigation of neurological conditions in the brain and spinal cord as well as joint problems.

Dr Lowe said it was the biggest step forward in hi-tech imaging ever in Bradford - like moving from silent pictures to the talkies. "It is a milestone for Bradford. It's obviously very exciting for staff and for patients and what's more it's been made possible by the generosity of local people.

"I think there is no area of medicine or surgery which will not be affected by this development.

"For things like brain tumours you have to use these very sensitive techniques which will enable them to be treated early.

"It will potentially avoid more serious and invasive investigations which is important for people who are already quite ill.

"I am sure as clinical indications for this technology evolve, the spectrum of applications will widen," he said.

"We have specially chosen this model with a view to be able to upgrade it as we go along.

"We are very excited to see what it can do to find out what is wrong with patients."

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