Big Picnic to feed child patients funds

While offering an afternoon of entertainment for all ages, the annual showpiece event of the Friends of Harrogate Hospital raises thousands of pounds each year for equipment and facilities which make the stay of patients even better at Harrogate District Hospital and supports them in the community.

This year’s profits will go to buy specialist beds for use in the homes of child patients, enabling them to return home earlier to be cared for by their family and district paediatric team.

“The Big Picnic will have plenty for all the family to enjoy at an event which has become very popular and has the very worthwhile aim of purchasing equipment over and above that which the NHS can provide immediately if at all,“ said Friends Chairman Ian Elliot.

Previous Big Picnics have raised thousands of pounds to support partially sighted children and those suffering from Cerebral Palsy and Autism.

Other items bought have included birthing aids and heated cot mattresses for the Special Care Baby Unit. 

For children, there will be fairground rides, a bouncy castle, archery and a climbing wall. For parents, a discounted goods stall will be run by the Friends and supported by Procter and Gamble. Various charities will be on display along with food outlets, from noon to 4pm.