The Friends have got a new friend in a high place – recently- appointed North Walsham Mayor Barry Hester.
He has kindly made us his charity of the year, and has pledged to raise hundreds of pounds during his time in office.
Mr Hester, 60, was mayor two years ago, when he raised £1900, which was split between the local dementia support group – in memory of his mother who lived with the condition – and the parish church First World War window restoration appeal.
After donning the chain once more, the retired civil servant has chosen the Friends to benefit from civic and town council charity events this year.
They will include the civic dinner, Christmas markets, market stalls and tombolas as well as other events he will be discussing soon with fellow councillors and the Friends.
Mr Hester, who lives in Corbett Road, North Walsham, said: “I was looking for a good cause to support and it did not take long to choose the hospital Friends.
“I attended the opening of the hospital’s training suite they provided during my last term of office, and am keen to help them carry on their good work.”
Friends chairman Keith Jarvis said: “We are thrilled to have the support of the mayor. Not only will it bring us more funds to help the hospital and its patients, but it will help raise awareness of who we are and what we do.”
The Friends are currently in talks with the health authorities over plans to improve the hospital day centre and garden patio for the benefit of patients and visiting relatives.