THE Friends of Okehampton Community Hospital announced this week the final total raised by collections during Hospital Week was £684.

The total was raised by a flag day in town, together with some door to door collections and collecting tins left in town shops.

John Marvin, chairman of the Friends of Okehampton Hospital, said: ?I am thrilled at this total ? it is a very creditable sum that has been raised by our small band of helpers. The town has always supported its hospital well and now we have our new community hospital that support continues apace.?

He added: ?This money will be spent very soon on a highly sophisticated heart and blood pressure monitor.?

Mr Marvin said the Friends did not retain large balances and its policy was to spend the money raised as quickly as possible so that patients saw an immediate benefit from the money raised.

New members are always welcome and recruitment leaflets are to be found in the Health Centre and the hospital or alternatively contact Mr Marvin on 01837 659708.