Cheque this out – BGH unit’s £35,000 windfall

The cheque, which represents half of what the Friends have pledged to the campaign, was presented by the group’s chairman, Jennifer Croall, to John Raine, chairman of NHS Borders.

Fundraising for the palliative care unit is almost halfway to the final £1million target.

Jennifer commented: “We are delighted to present this cheque, representing half of our pledge to the Margaret Kerr unit appeal.

“Many people have helped to raise this money by supporting and holding events, and by donations and legacies both large and small. We are delighted to see the progress that is being made on the unit which is a much-needed facility in the Borders.”

Work is under way on the unit which is due to be available for patients next year.

John said he was most grateful to the Friends for their contribution and added: “The Friends have been wonderful supporters of the hospital for many years, contributing to numerous projects, and we do not underestimate the efforts required from volunteers to raise such significant sums of money.

“I hope that people continue to generously support the forthcoming events that are planned by the Friends.”

The Friends have said they will hand over the remaining £35,000 to the appeal at the end of the year following a number of fundraising activities.