THIS week is Okehampton Flag Week, which has been organised to raise funds for the town?s new hospital. Collections are being arranged by the hospital?s friends association, funds from which will go directly towards extra facilities that the Primary Healthcare Trust cannot provide due to limited funding. The group hope that this year will be even more successful than last year?s Alexandra Rose Day, which has been replaced by flag week. Friends chairman John Marvin said: ?Thanks to the response of the community to our 2004 campaign we have bought a tilting chairbed that patients tell us is very much appreciated, optical equipment for the eye clinics, a defibrillator, X-ray viewers, pill dispensers and equipment for the rehabilitation classes.? He appealed to people to give generously: ?It is our hospital and we want it to maintain the highest possible standards.? The friends are also on the lookout for volunteers, especially those in the many villages served by the hospital, to help with the collections. Anyone able to do so is asked to call 01837 659708. Collecting tins will be situated around the town from July 4 to 9 and street collectors will be out in force on Saturday. The group will also be at Okehampton Show this year. To find out more about becoming a member of Friends of Okehampton community hospital contact treasurer Martin Perry on 01409 221376.
