YOUNG patients at Ipswich Hospital are today enjoying the use of a totally transformed play area thanks to the generosity of Evening Star readers.
YOUNG patients at Ipswich Hospital are today enjoying the use of a totally transformed play area thanks to the generosity of Evening Star readers.
Once tatty and dilapidated, the children's wards' play area is today an oasis of fun, complete with a bright green play surface and sparkly new equipment.
The revamped play area is the product of the Star's Let Them Play appeal which launched last Christmas and raised £30,000.
Speaking at an official opening ceremony yesterday, Mike Brookes, the hospital's chairman, said: “We are very pleased to have such a fantastic facility for the children.
“It really shows how kind and generous the local population can be and we are delighted to have it up and running.”
Let Them Play was launched in order to give the play area a much-needed makeover.
Years of use by thousands of tiny feet had left the surface worn-out and tatty, but hospital funds could not be found to replace it.
Now, as well as a springy new play surface, children are also due to benefit from a host of new toys thanks to the Lions Club of Ipswich, who donated £2,000 to help kit out the play area.
Eddie King, vice president, said: “We are really pleased that we've been able to help out with some of the funding for this project and I hope the toys will be enjoyed by the children that use them.”
The re-surfacing of the play area began in the summer and it has been up and running for the last few months.
Andrew Reed, the hospital's chief executive, was among those at the official opening ceremony.
He said: “It has made a huge difference to the children here.
“The whole play area was a bit past its best but it has been completely transformed.
“We've now got a great environment for children to play in and aid their recovery.
“I would like to thank everyone who helped in the fundraising effort.”
Has your child benefited from the new play area? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk
WEBLINK: www.ipswichhospital.nhs.uk
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