A bumper package of gifts was the Women's Royal Voluntary Service's way of marking National Volunteers' Week.

The stalwart band, who devote their spare time to Southend Hospital, spent nearly £53,000 on items including monitors for checking blood flow in the brain, foetal heart activity during labour, blood pressure and vital life signs.

The money was all raised from the refreshment kiosks in outpatients and the Cardigan wing.

Hospital chairman, Mike Brookes, who was presented with the goodies by hospital shop services manager, Joan Walker, said: "Volunteers play a very important role within the hospital, providing additional facilities and services that can make such a difference to the comfort of our patients and visitors."

As a thank you for their generosity, all volunteers at the hospital have been invited to a special reception. Anyone who would like to become a volunteer can get more information or an application form from Chris Miller on 01702 435555, ext 3365.

The hospital is particularly keen to hear from drivers able to help out with the Carecars transport service.

Vital signs - Mike Brookes submits to testing on some of the new equipment. Dr Maggie Nicol was in charge

Picture: MIKE NEVILLE

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