TRUSTEES of Wellington Hospital League of Friends reflected on a successful year at their recent annual general meeting.

The financial year March 31, 2025 to April 1, 2026 saw the league help raise the public awareness of the services available at Wellington Community Hospital, providing £23,066 of funding for health services across the community.

In her report, chair of the League of Friends, Martine Thurtle paid tribute to her fellow trustees saying they were the key element to the success of the league. Without them the generously donated funds could not be raised and assessments made of requests for funding, she stated.

She said: “It has been another busy year in the life of Wellington Hospital League of Friends. Our fundraising events this year were the Summer Cream Tea, Christmas Coffee Morning, sale of Christmas cards and Songs for Everyone event.

“We continue to develop awareness of what the League does to support the medical needs of our community.

“The League has been able to continue working to support the health of our community with the medical teams at the hospital under Norma Coombes, Matron. We have also supported the Community Nurses, our GP practice, Wellington Medical Centre and the part funding of a community defibrillator, which has already been used to save a young life.

“With income of £14,277 and funding requests approved of £23,066 it can be seen that, when appropriate, we do use reserves.”

In her report, press officer Diane Grabham, reminded everyone it’s not all about the money as this past year had seen the league not only increase its own profile but more importantly that of Wellington Community Hospital.

The league worked closely with Paul Hopkins, external communications lead at Somerset NHS Foundation Trust and this led to two videos being produced, one about the current use of our hospital and a second on its history and that of the league.

One of the highlights of the year had been the very successful Open Day at the hospital in October when Matron, Norma Coombes and senior staff nurse Kate Henbest led many visitors on a tour of the building.

In addition to the videos, the league has increased its publicity material to include an information board, pull-up banner and information leaflet.

For one trustee the meeting represented their last AGM as John Bailey has decided to resign after 25 years as a trustee. During this time John has served the league as chair, vice-chair and treasurer, putting in innumerable hours of work. On behalf of fellow trustees, Martine thanked him for his dedicated service and presented him with a small gift.

The election of officers saw Martine Thurtle stand down as chair after six years in the post, however she will continue as a trustee. Sue Alderman stepped up from vice-chair to chair while Cheryl Bailey was re-elected as secretary, Brian Blelloch re-elected as treasurer and Diane Grabham elected as vice-chair whilst also being re-elected as press officer for the organisation.