Sun takes its toll on hospital fete as funds dip

The hottest weekend of the year proved too much of a diversion from the fundraising occasion for many people.

The three hours of attractions laid on by the Friends of the hospital raised a creditable 5,300 or so. But this was 3,000 down on the record amount achieved last year.

Anita Sturdey, the Friends' fundraising co-ordinator, said the group was relatively happy with the outcome from Saturday afternoon's event.

'It's still 5,300 more than we had on Friday. The sun shone for us and this could have been the problem as many people went to the beach.

'The fete is our biggest fundraiser and every people we make counts.'

The site was filled when the fete opened at 1pm and the atmosphere, with the Regis Jazz Band playing, was fantastic.

The cream teas proved popular and were enjoyed as fete-goers soaked up the weather to watch the excellent displays by the Art of Dance and Fitness and The Spirits of Ishtar.

A mass of games kept children amused. Adults had plenty to interest them among the bric-a-brac, country produce and bottle stalls as well as the tombola.

One disappointment was the failure to find a replacement for the face painter who dropped out late last week.

'This disappointed some of the children,' added Mrs Sturdey. 'So, next year we will be looking for a talented artist to help us out.'