A TALENTED musician left nearly £500,000 to a hospital.

Bachelor Trevor Culpan, 72, died in January, 2004, and it was always his wish to leave money to the Calderdale Royal Hospital, where he had been treated several times.

Mr Culpan, from Rastrick, left £460,000 - one of the largest bequests ever - and the money has bought equipment throughout the Halifax hospital.

His family attended a special presentation ceremony at the hospital yesterday.

Specially-made commemorative plaques were also presented.

The new equipment Mr Culpan's money bought is used in intensive care, in the maternity unit and in general wards.

His cousin, Robert Booth, said: "He was treated at the hospital a few times and was always very appreciative.

"He was also very interested in medical research and developments."

Mr Culpan served with the RAF and was an inspector at an engineering firm. He also owned several properties.

But he was also a very talented harmonica player who played with virtuoso Larry Adler.

Mr Culpan was officially the best British harmonica player in the early sixties and came third in the world championships in 1964.

A spokesman for Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust said: "This was a very generous bequest which has been spent over the years, just as he had wished for the benefit of our patients in many areas.

"Every effort was made to spend the money in accordance with his wishes.

"We were delighted to welcome his friends and family to the hospital," the spokesman added.