The annual Grand Fete organised by the League of Friends of Ross Community Hospital was unfortunately unlucky with the weather and they had to move into the hospital.

However, despite this the event was very well supported and raised nearly £4,000.

The Chairman of the League, Mr Peter Parkin, welcomed the Mayor and Mayoress Councillor and Mrs John Edwards to the event. He also extended a welcome to all the ladies, gentlemen and children attending and apologised that we had not got a perfect summer day.

The Mayor said he saw the League was almost 99 years old and spoke of the amount raised in that time. It was good to know patients are not forgotten and he went on to say what could be achieved by hard work by a dedicated committee. He then formally declared the Fete open. Luke Jackson presented him with a buttonhole and the Mayoress received a posy.

During the afternoon the Ross Town Band entertained and also Mr Steve Turner was in attendance with his barrel organ.

The members of Razz-ma-Tazz displayed their line dancing skills and enchanted their audience with their precision and enthusiasm.

The Fire Brigade, who are great supporters of the Fete were also there together with fire engine.

At the end of the afternoon the various draws took place. The first prizewinner out of the hat in the Brownies' draw was Mrs Broom and Miss Lewis correctly named the bear 'Rupert'. Mr John Constance won the Guides' draw and Mrs Mander was the lucky winner of the Rainbows' draw. Mrs Jean Parkin won the dinner for two kindly donated by The Chase Hotel. Mrs O'Driscoll was the winner of the first prize of £100 in the League's Grand Draw with Mrs D Joyner second and Mrs J Smith third.

The committee agreed that despite the weather it had been a very successful afternoon and they are grateful to all the organisations who helped on the day and also the people of Ross for their continuing support.

The next event for the League will be a coffee morning in September.