Margaret Hiles MBE, chairman of the Friends of Whitchurch Community Hospital, accepts a cheque from Malcolm and Janet Harrison

Fundraisers for Whitchurch’s hospital have enjoyed some festive cheer after they received a cash boost in time for Christmas.

The Friends of Whitchurch Community Hospital have received £8,756.50 from Malcolm and Janet Harrison who raised money at their annual vintage auction in Prees. The money was presented to Margaret Hiles, chairman of the fundraising group, who thanked the couple for their donation.

She said the money would be used to buy equipment for the hospital, including specialist eye equipment, which costs about £13,000.

“It is wonderful,” she said. “I wish to say a big thank you and can’t thank them enough. We really appreciate it.

“At every meeting the manager of the hospital produces a list of what they would like. There is usually quite a lot on it.

“Recently we ordered a machine for people’s eyes which costs about £13,000 and needs to be paid for.

“By buying this type of equipment it means people don’t have to travel to Shrewsbury or Telford.”

Mr and Mrs Harrison were shown around the outpatients building of the hospital, which was built with the help of money raised by the group.

The building opened in 2008 and cost about £400,000. It features consulting rooms and a therapy room.

Mrs Hiles conducted the opening alongside Dr John Clayton, a retired GP with close ties to the hospital.

North Shropshire MP Owen Paterson, Primary Care Trust members and town councillors all turned out to witness the occasion.

Malcolm Harrison, of Malcolm Harrison Auctions, said: “I bumped into Margaret one day by accident and was impressed with what she has done for the hospital.”

He added about £162,000 was raised from the recent auction of old commercial vehicles, agricultural equipment and plant.

He is looking to hold another vintage auction next autumn and is appealing for people with any equipment they wish to sell.

For more details call (01630) 674326.