Bay Hospitals Charity funded the bench in memory of Dr William Mitchell, a consultant general physician and rheumatologist who worked at the hospital for more than 30 years. 

Family members, friends and colleagues gathered at the hospital for a special unveiling ceremony. 

Dr Mitchell trained and worked in Scotland prior to joining Furness General. He was popular with patients, as well as with medical students and junior doctors through his roles as teacher and mentor with Liverpool University and Lancaster Medical School. 

He was also celebrated for his life-saving role in identifying the outbreak of Legionnaires' disease in Barrow in 2002, resulting in early diagnosis and treatment of patients. 

Dr Mitchell continued working for University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust until his death in February 2021. 

UHMBT Chief Executive Aaron Cummins said: "Bill was a much-loved friend and colleague, and someone who is deeply missed within Furness General Hospital and the wider Morecambe Bay region. 

"I hope that this memorial will help everyone to remember him and his achievements, and thank him for his huge contribution to our community."   

The memorial bench has been installed near the main entrance at Furness General Hospital.