Sidmouth Victoria Hospital took a step closer to a major fundraising goal when £10,000 of swimathon cash was handed over on Monday.
The Rotary Club of Sidmouth donation is boosting the health hub in the fifth and final phase of its redevelopment – a project 25 years in the making.
More than 20 teams took the plunge in the popular fundraiser to raise £9,000, and a further £1,000 came from its Christmas tree collection service and gift aid add-ons.
Hospital comforts fund chairman Graham Vincent said the money raised was ‘beyond expectations’, adding: “When Rotary announced us as their beneficiary for the year, we never dreamed that they would raise £10,000 for us.
“It’s a wonderful total. We are so grateful to them and the community.”
The comforts fund is aiming to raise £130,000 of phase five’s £1.3million estimated cost by next April, and has several events in the making to reach that target.
Work due to be completed in June includes relocating the physiotherapy and occupational therapy units to the main building, alongside the main wards, outpatient and complex care team areas.
The kitchen is also being moved and a single reception and waiting room will be created.
The minor injury unit will be moved closer to the main wards to allow easier access for patients and staff and the existing physiotherapy building will be demolished, making more room for visitor parking.
Anyone interested in supporting the appeal can contact Mr Vincent on 01395 512155.
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