Thousands raised for Bognor Regis War Memorial Hospital

Just over £4,300 was raised during the Friends of Bognor Regis War Memorial Hospital’s biggest event of the year.

The money will go towards a £20,000 scheme to give the day dining room on the hospital’s Leslie Smith ward a makeover.

Friends’ secretary Debbie Smith said: “The result of the fete is really good considering the economic climate.

“The day was a success and will help us to refurbish the ward’s day dining room.”

Among those who visited the fundraiser in the hospital’s Shripney Road grounds were loyal supporters and Pagham residents Peter and Enid Mitchell.

Mr Mitchell said: “We are in our eighties and we’ve been coming to the fete for the past 30 years, except when it’s been wet.

“It’s one of those things we think you should do – support the local hospital.

“We nearly lost it once and we would be a poorer town without it.”

The fete included new attractions this year to help it to overcome the afternoon’s light showers.

They included a popular model railway display, Adie’s Tuc Tuc rides, reflexology treatments and Pets as Therapy dogs and volunteers.

They joined traditional favourites such as tombolas, face painting, cakes and pies, a bottle stall, children’s rides and bric-a-brac.

Norman Wisdom impersonator Glenn Ford was also present to add his touch of humour to the occasion.

He said: “It’s been good. I only came down for half an hour after being invited by the compere, Erik Jack, and I’ve stayed all afternoon.

“It’s the first time I’ve been here and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed myself.”

Brian Knight, the chairman of the Friends, said: “We’ve had lots of people here and I’m really pleased with the way the fete has gone.

“We’ve had several new attractions this year and they have given us some extra interest for people to enjoy.”