A COMMUNITY support organisation has donated hundreds of pounds to a charity supporting Andover’s hospital following fundraising efforts throughout the year.

At the annual general meeting of the Inner Wheel Club of Andover, a cheque for £500 was presented to the chairman of the Friends of Andover War Memorial Hospital, Iris Andersen.

As a supporter of the charity, the Inner Wheel Club made the donation towards the purchase of an easy-to-use advanced blood analyser for the hospital to provide healthcare professionals with lab-quality results within minutes.

On presenting the cheque, incoming club president Maureen Burgess said: “Our main fundraising this year is to support the Friends of Andover War Memorial Hospital in helping to purchase badly-needed new equipment.

“This will help the community by not having to travel to hospitals in other areas, such as Winchester, Basingstoke and Southampton as many patients can find this difficult.”

Over the course of the last year, the Inner Wheel Club has continued to raise money for local and overseas charities with a series of fundraising events including a Christmas coffee morning and a frugal lunch which has enabled the organisation to make donations to charities including CRUSH, Neighbourcare and the Countess of Brecknock Hospice.

As Inner Wheel celebrated its 80th year, the club continues to support the organisation’s district holiday scheme, where carers are offered a free holiday to give them a break, and Andover Rotary, providing refreshments for Youth Speaks, Young Writers and a concert in St Mary’s Church.

Members have also helped with the sorting and packing of shoeboxes for the Rotary Club’s Christmas campaign.

Mrs Burgess added: “The year has ended on a very sad and sombre note with the sudden death of our secretary, Penny Scriven.

“Not only has she been an excellent secretary but someone who was always willing to help by hosting meetings, transporting members and giving help and support when needed.

“She will be sadly missed by us all.”

For more information about the club visit innerwheel.co.uk.