Festive joy for Worthing Hospital children's ward

Staff on Beach and Barn wards made a plea for the town's residents to consider buying an extra present this year for hospital patients when they are out doing their Christmas shopping.

Rebecca C'Aliceta, paediatric matron, said: "The support we've had has been unbelievable.

"People's kindness and generosity has been overwhelming.

Generous gifts

"I want to thank each and every person who has given something to the hospital.

"Patient Beth Wells and her family gave Marks and Spencer gift vouchers to all the staff and her aunt and uncle donated 500.

"Patient Jacob Furlonger and his parents gave us 60. An antronics company donated 100 and we received 500 from the West Sussex Travel Society charity.

"The money will be used to buy Christmas presents for the patients, and to buy new toys to kit out the wards."

Sweet treats

Students from Durrington High School prepared more than 50 festive hampers to donate to the wards.

Karen Purser, from the school, in The Boulevard, said: "The students spent their time decorating the hampers with a wide variety of imaginative and creative ideas. Inside, were festive treats, tins and packets of food along with books, toys, DVDs and many other treats."

The Rotary Club of West Worthing has also donated to the children's wards this week.

The club presented two televisions and DVD players, a portable DVD player, Wii games, DVDs and various toiletries to patients and staff.

Supportive community

Lesley-Anne Lloyd, head of charities at the hospital, said: "It is fantastic the community has supported the hospital and the presents really will make a difference to the children and teenagers.

"We hope people will continue to support us between Christmas and the New Year. If anyone has unwanted Christmas presents then don't let them go to waste when they could brighten up a patients' time in hospital."

A presenter from Heart FM also visited the children's ward to deliver toys which were donated by listeners and Asda customers across Sussex.

To donate presents or money to the children's ward contact the charities office on 01243 831799 or email Tina.Ellis@wsht.nhs.uk

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