AN APPEAL has been launched for new members to join a vital Dawlish charity. 

The Friends of Dawlish Hospital, who recently successfully campaigned for the reopening of the hospital’s Minor Injuries Unit, is looking for more help to continue to support the hospital. 

The organisation was set up before the community hospital was built in Dawlish in 1999.

Current chairman Geoff King explained: ‘It is no exaggeration to say that the hospital is unlikely to have been built had the Friends not pledged to provide all the infrastructure within the building. 

‘That includes beds, furniture, the kitchen and other equipment needed for the hospital to function. 

‘That commitment of £850,000, at 1998 prices, was provided by the support of the Dawlish community and generous donations.’

Since then, the Friends have maintained the original fittings and continued to supply updated equipment ranging from floor scrubbers and televisions to lower limb treatment chairs and security systems. 

The charity also funds the provision of a hospital support worker and maintenance of the sensory garden.

Geoff added: ‘We continue to raise money to provide this help and are looking for new members to help us achieve what is a worthwhile cause.’

Anyone interested in finding out more about helping organise events or managing the administration can call Geoff for details on 01626 862901.

Dawlish Community Hospital was opened by Her Royal Highness Princess Anne. There has been a hospital in Dawlish since 1871.