Arrowe Park League of Friends raises over £4m for WUTH

A special event was held by Wirral University Teaching Hospital (WUTH) to thank Arrowe Park League of Friends Charity for four decades of support during which they have raised over £4 million for the hospital.

The Arrowe Park Hospital League of Friends Charity came to a close following an incredible 42-year journey. During a fond farewell event, the Arrowe Park League of Friends chair, Martin Greaney, handed over one final cheque for over £200,000 made out to WUTH Charity, which was gratefully received by WUTH Chief Executive, Janelle Holmes. 

Martin Greaney said: “The Arrowe Park Hospital League of Friends Charity are extremely proud to transfer our final cheque for over £200,000 to WUTH Charity, bringing the total raised to almost £4.5 million. Our fundraising for the hospital, over the last 42 years, has been hugely rewarding but the time has come to say farewell, with the fondest of memories, to all at Arrowe Park Hospital.”

Janelle Holmes said: “We are enormously grateful to the Arrowe Park League of Friends for everything they have done to support the hospital. Their tireless fundraising has helped the hospital to purchase a whole host of equipment and supportive items which have made a huge difference to our patients. We want to say a heartfelt thank you to each and every person who has helped along the way, especially to the committee for their time and dedication over the last 42 years.” 

Starting out with a trolley service to patients, the Arrowe Park League of Friends later opened a shop in the hospital for staff, patients and visitors.

Volunteers, who have been a vital part of the Arrowe Park League of Friends fundraising activities, have spanned all age ranges, from sixth form students to retirees. One dedicated volunteer, Beryl Dare, received the 2014 British Empire Medal Award for her volunteering services with Arrowe Park League of Friends.

Items bought with the charity’s generous cash donations over the years include life-changing equipment such as an endobronchial ultrasound machine to support pioneering treatment for lung cancer patients, heart monitors, staff training aids and new cots, through to ward entertainment for young patients on the children’s ward to help raise their spirits during their stay.