The generosity of the people of Frome in support of the new Frome Community Hospital, which opened in 2008, has been officially acknowledged at a simple, but poignant, ceremony with the unveiling of plaques recognising the substantial contribution from both the business community and the general public.
Addressing representatives from the Somerset NHS, PCT, the service clubs and the local business community, mayor Helen Sprawson-White and Peter Maunder a non-executive director of Butler Tanner and Dennis, unveiled two plaques specially commissioned by the Friends of the Hospital.
Commenting on the inauguration of the plaques Peter Smith, chairman of Friends of the Hospital (FoH) said, “The determination and support of the public to realise a super new hospital has been undiminished throughout a long and often uncertain campaign since it was first mooted in 1996.
“Government policies and priorities have changed numerous times and there were many moments of despair. The faith of the Friends of the Hospital steering committee, the support of David Heath MP and influence brought to bear by our local corporate business leaders has been very significant.
“But, it is the general public and organisations from the town and our surrounding villages who must take the plaudits in their support, and sometimes original fundraising campaigns, that has allowed over £600,000 to be raised to provide additional facilities for the patients. Celebration concerts, a prayer book and swear boxes were among the diverse schemes which enabled us to achieve our target to procure equipment.
“Although both myself and Dr John Moxon, who led the campaign for over 12 years, have received Civic Awards for our background work to achieve the building of the hospital, the FoH have simply been the conduit for the great community spirit from the people of Frome and these plaques are dedicated to all of those who made it possible.”
The plaques are on display in the foyer of the Frome Community Hospital.