Deal Hospital Fete was a huge success and possibly a record breaker, as more than £8,000 was raised during the three hour event.

The sun shone, the stalls were busy, the entertainment for the afternoon was first class and bargains galore were taken home.

Fete co-ordinator Sarah Thompson said: “There was a brilliant atmosphere and I don’t think I have ever seen so many people supporting the day before.

“The League of Friends and I were delighted with the turnout and the support the hospital has been shown this year. It proves how much the staff and hospital are really valued within this community.”

Drums and glockenspiels played by members of Deal Air Training Corps heralded the start and the fete was opened by Maureen Bane, president of the Friends group and a former hospital manager.

She thanked the supporters, volunteers and all the helpers and complimented Sarah Thompson and her deputy Myra McMenamin for their hard work.

Mrs Bane said the support from the community had been wonderful and paid tribute to Deal Hospital and its staff for being “the jewel in the crown” for the town.

There was music from the Ukulele Duo, a magic show and a chance to meet two miniature donkeys from Wynnfield at Ham. Children enjoyed stroking and cuddling four-month-old Dorothy and her mother Fancy.

Another favourite was the miniature class 76 train from the Ramsgate and District Model Engineering Club and made by Michael Clements, now a regular Hospital Fete visitor.

* Buy the East Kent Mercury on Thursday for the full story and a double page of Deal Hospital Fete photos by Tony Flashman.