£2.7m health tech robot – with a tribute to town's famous brothers

And the new technology – designed to assist surgeons during certain procedures by allowing greater precision and control – has a very 'on brand' nickname with the borough.

In tribute to Rotherham's famous brothers entertainers Paul and Barry Chuckle, the robot's three main components – two arms and a central control console – has been given a nickname paying tribute to the pair's BBC children's show ChuckleVision which ran between 1987 and 2009.

The arms are called Paul and Barry, with the console affectionately known as Chuck.

For suitable patients, robotic assisted surgery can offer benefits such as smaller incisions, reduced pain and a quicker recovery compared to traditional surgery.

The trust treated its first patients using the robotic system earlier last month following an extensive period of preparation, staff training and safety checks.

This marked the start of a phased introduction that will expand gradually to additional procedures and specialties once it is clinically safe and appropriate to do so.

Mrs Susan Douglas, deputy medical director for Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust, said: “This is a significant step forward for surgical care at Rotherham.

“Our teams have taken a careful, evidence led approach to introducing this technology, with patient safety at the heart of every decision.

“Robotic assisted surgery will allow us to support our surgeons and improve outcomes for patients where it is clinically appropriate.”

She added: “Robotic assisted surgery does not replace surgeons.

“All procedures are carried out by highly trained consultant surgeons, supported by specialist theatre teams.

“The robot responds entirely to the surgeon’s movements and cannot act independently.

Richard Slater, consultant colorectal surgeon and robotic surgery lead, said: “Robotic assisted surgery gives surgeons another option for performing complex procedures with precision.

“It will not be the right approach for every patient, but for some it can make a real difference to recovery and overall experience.

“Introducing this technology safely has required extensive training, teamwork and planning across the hospital.”

The introduction of robotic assisted surgery at Rotherham Hospital aligns with wider NHS ambitions to expand access to modern surgical techniques, helping more patients receive high quality care closer to home.

Patients are only offered robotic assisted surgery where it is clinically suitable.

Surgeons continue to discuss all available treatment options with patients to ensure care is tailored to individual needs.