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A flame commemorating 60 years of health volunteers arrived
in Ashford carried by the Friends of William Harvey Hospital.

The Olympic-style torch from a national association of health
volunteers travelled along the Flume in the town’s shared
space.

Chairman Malcolm Brook said: “The friends put the icing on the
cake for the things that are provided for the hospital.

“Because of our volunteers we make a very good profit in our
shop and every penny we make goes back into the hospital for the
benefit of the community as a whole.”

The Friends was founded in 1977, two years before the opening of
the hospital. Since that date over £2.5 million has been raised for
much needed and expensive medical equipment.

The flame commemorates the diamond jubilee of the National
Association of Hospital and Community Friends, better known as
Attend. The flame started its journey in Scalpay on the Isle of
Harris in the Outer Hebrides on March 23 to coincide with the 60th
anniversary.

It reaches its final destination on Wednesday, when it
will be presented to Attend president Lord Fraser of
Carmyllie.

The next friends fundraising event will be a concert on November
13 at Highworth school hall. Starting at 7pm at the Quantock Drive
venue, music will suit all tastes from classic to jazz. Tickets are
£3.50 and £2 for concessions and are available from the foyer shop
at the William Harvey Hospital, Highworth school and on the
door.

For more information or to find out more about the friends call Sue
Heritage on 01233 633331, extension 88394.