A CARDIOLOGY ward at the Royal Devon and Exeter hospital had even more reason to celebrate at Christmas, thanks to the generosity of an agricultural engineer from Exbourne. Tony Ward, a former patient on the Avon Ward, and his friend Roy Jury, organised a ploughing competition to raise money for Avon Ward at the R D and E and for Okehampton Hospital. The ploughing competition, held at Jacobstowe, attracted more than 40 entrants from all across the West Country. Five months earlier, Mr West underwent heart valve replacement surgery and wanted to show his appreciation for the care he received. He said: 'I wanted to show my appreciation and thought ploughing, which I've done for ten years, is a part of life here and it seemed a good way to raise money. We had a great turnout.' Avon Ward matron, Deborah Taylor, said: 'We are very grateful to Mr West and the farming community for raising money for the ward. ' It means a lot to the staff and will greatly benefit future patients.' Mr West was in the driving seat of his Massey tractor for the event, which raised £600 for Avon Ward and £300 for Okehampton hospital. Mr West and Mr Jury presented cheques to Deborah Taylor and charge nurse Mark Horsley, of Okehampton Community Hospital, on Christmas Eve.