Resounding Success of Royal Surrey’s Christmas Present Appeal

Published on: 18 Dec, 2016
Updated on: 17 Dec, 2016

Matrons Laura Treacy and Jo Michie.

The Royal Surrey County Hospital has been overwhelmed by the response to its Christmas present appeal.

More than 850 beautifully decorated shoe boxes filled with festive treats have been generously donated by the people of Guildford.

The hospital had initially hoped to provide every elderly patient in hospital with a gift to open on Christmas Day.

But due to the astounding response from the local community, the Royal Surrey has announced that it will now be able to ensure every in-patient receives a present on December 25.

Director of Nursing Louise Stead said: “We know that no-one wants to spend Christmas in hospital and for some of our patients this can mean not receiving a visit from friends and family.

“Our staff work tirelessly to make Christmas a happy time for our patients and these donations will help to make the day just a bit more special.”

Head of fundraising Sarah Ferris added: “Christmas is known as the season of giving, but we’ve been completely blown away by the generosity of the people of Guildford, Woking and the surrounding villages.

“From businesses to families – many people have been kind enough to wrap up items that will make spending Christmas on a hospital ward a bit more festive.

“We would like to thank everyone who has donated for their generosity and goodwill.”