The public are being given the opportunity to name a new £1.4 million MRI scanner at a Wiltshire animal hospital.

The state-of-the-art equipment at Eastcott Veterinary Referrals, in Swindon, is now up and running and the hospital has launched a search for a name.

Three years ago, a social media competition resulted in a previous scanner at the hospital christened MRIah Carey.

Hospital director at Eastcott, Niki Burton, said: "It’s a fun exercise to engage with our clients and local community to name this incredible new piece of imaging equipment.

"I must admit MRIah Carey will take some beating but I’m sure we’ll still be receiving some 'scantastic' suggestions for our new machine.

"It really is cutting edge, hi-tech piece equipment that will further boost the imaging facilities provided here at Eastcott.

"Such an important investment once again confirms our on-going commitment to providing the best treatment to our pet patients using the latest technology and equipment."

To suggest a name for the new MRI machine, visit Eastcott’s Facebook page.

Eastcott’s radiographer and registered vet nurse, Nicholas Taylor, said: “Although we have fantastic facilities for diagnosing and treating our patients, not every neurology patient we see needs to have an MRI.

"In a number of cases, the experience of our team and a thorough review of the case with their owner and referring vet allows us to provide an appropriate level of care for pets without further testing."

He added: “The scanner will provide improved image quality which is essential in neurological investigations of the brain and spinal cord, and examinations of joints and soft tissue.

"Its advanced technology also offers potential reductions in the time required to perform MRI examinations.

"As a diagnostic radiographer who has worked with MRI equipment in the NHS and veterinary profession, I am sure the new scanner will greatly benefit our patients and I look forward to working with the Eastcott team to continue improving the multi-disciplinary services which we offer."

Another benefit of Eastcott’s new scanner is a huge reduction in the amount of helium gas it uses for cooling.

Mr Taylor added: "The BlueSeal magnet technology of the MR5300 uses just seven litres of liquid helium for cooling.

“That’s compared to the 1,500 litres used by MRI scanners with conventional magnets like the mobile scanner it is replacing at Eastcott so it’s a huge advance in so many different areas.”