Tombola raises funds for hospital’s MRI scanner appeal

TICKETS were flying for a blind tombola at University Hospital of North Durham – with proceeds going towards a new MRI scanner.

Staff from Pelton Grange Care Home, on Front Street, Pelton, near Chester-le-Street, organised the fundraiser and manned the stand at the hospital.

Visitors, patients and staff bought tickets in the hopes of winning an unknown prize, which were all wrapped as Christmas presents.

The care home staff raised £208 on the day. And winners walked away with gift sets, children’s books, moisturisers, bubble bath, doorstops, cuddly toys and more.

Chris Hogan-Hind, home manager at Pelton Grange Care Home, manned the tombola alongside activities coordinator Lindsay Sale-Thorn and Hill Care customer relations officer Julie Walker.

Chris said: “We had wonderful support from everyone at the hospital and raised a great amount.

“We were aware of the MRI scanner appeal and wanted help raise funds, as the hospital provides an amazing and vital service in our region, including for the residents at our home.”

Sarah Lynch, from the County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We’re delighted to have received this support from Pelton Grange.

“All funds raised will go towards our MRI scanner appeal at County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Charity.

“With the generosity of community businesses like Pelton Grange, we can help to enhance the care and well-being of our patients.

“In just over one year, we have raised over £740,000, and hope we still have time to make the £1,000,000 before Christmas! We still need lots of help.

“We’ve met some wonderful people and made some great friends. We’re truly overwhelmed by the goodwill of so many people getting together to help make a difference.”