STROKE victims' chances of survival are significantly poorer if treated at West Middlesex than other hospitals, research has revealed.

The Isleworth hospital ranked as one of the country's worst performers, with a survival rate of only 75 per cent for stroke patients.

Research compiled by London's Imperial College School of Medicine shows the chances of surviving a stroke depend largely on where the sufferer lives.

Its team calculated the standard mortality rates for stroke patients. Using data collected from every hospital in the country, the team compiled a 'league table' of stroke survival rates.

West Middlesex Hospital came just 14th from the bottom with a higher mortality rate than average.

Hospital spokesman Andrew Butcher admitted that facilities at the Twickenham Road site are far from satisfactory. "Like most hospitals, West Middlesex does not have a dedicated acute stroke ward, so while we will look to improve the way we do things, we are also seeking new investment so we can improve facilities," he said.

Strokes are Britain's third biggest killer and the most common cause of adult disability in the UK, affecting one in every four men and one in every five women over the age of 45.

Ann Blanche, chief officer at Hounslow Community Health Council, said that with so many people at risk, it is appalling that better services are not available.

She said: "Patients deserve access to the best facilities and West Middlesex is struggling so they will not get them until the health authorities grant the hospital funds to improve services. The fact that Ashford and St Peter's hospitals, which possess specialist stroke units, were ranked in the top third proves it makes a difference."

By.Sherelle Folkes