A SCHOOL has launched a £2,000 appeal to support a community hospital’s elderly residents.

Wolsingham School and Community College wants to raise the money by July to pay for an oxygen concentrator for patients at Weardale Community Hospital in Stanhope.

Deputy headteacher, Lee Elliott, said: “As a community school I feel that it is very important to continue to build links and support local residents, groups and organisations in Weardale.

“Having heard about Weardale Community Hospital and the excellent work they do from our Durham county councillor Anita Savory at our recent Wolsingham School 400 anniversary celebrations, I felt that the school could help out.

“Staff and students have volunteered to take part in various sponsored activities over the coming year.

“An inter-form competition has been set up with the form raising the most money receiving a pizza party in the summer.”

The hospital does not have piped oxygen so relies on oxygen concentrators to supply patients with an enriched gas mixture. As the devices are portable they enable patients to become more mobile and continue to exercise.

Cllr Savory said: “The Weardale Community Hospital is indeed a jewel in Weardale’s crown.

“It is wonderful to have the support of the students.

“It will give them an insight into the work and care that is delivered on a daily basis.

“The high standards that are delivered will hopefully inspire them in their future career choices.”

To support the fundraising email info@wolsinghamschool.net