Singer’s festive cheer boosts appeal

The event marked a year since Blue Skies’ Peace of Mind appeal was launched at the hospital by Blackpool FC legend Jimmy Armfield, and to date has raised nearly £19,000 to enhance care for patients who have dementia.

Blue Skies Hospitals Fund is the charity for Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation.

Anne, from The Nolans, said: “One of the key focuses of this appeal is to provide a secure and interactive garden here at Clifton Hospital where patients will be free to wander about and even help with some of the gardening.”

The fete boasted a Santa’s Grotto, craft and cake stalls and a tombola and raffle.

Staff at Clifton Hospital have also paid a big thank you to B&Q Blackpool which joined forces with the Just Good Friends charity to donate a Christmas tree.

Bev Sykes from the charity regularly visits the hospital.

Sister Pauline Bishop, from Clifton Hospital, took delivery of the tree from Tracy Gray, from B&Q.

Pauline said: “We have been looking for a tree to brighten the courtyard so that all wards and their patients can enjoy a Christmassy view from the dayrooms.

“It has put all the patients and staff in to the Christmas spirit which obviously makes them feel better about being in hospital at this time of year.

“We are grateful to all the groups which have helped us.”