WITH reference to the recent report on the Friends of Andover War Memorial Hospital (Advertiser July 27, ‘Merger plan for charities’).

I am saddened that there are not more people coming forward as volunteers and now it would appear that the Friends be amalgamating with Basingstoke and Winchester hospitals’ North Hampshire Medical Fund.

But, from the little I know I can’t understand why. It’s the easiest thing in the world to sit back and criticise after the event (I am already involved in charity work).

As to the cash in the bank, why is it sat there? Has it been earmarked for something that Joe Public are not privy to?

I am aware the Countess of Brecknock Hospice have their own successful fund raising system.

If the monies held by Andover Friends is not needed at this point in time could not some, if not all, be passed to help get the hospice new build up and running. The hospital and hospice both serve Andover and the surrounding area, so why not work together?

I strongly feel the public should be kept informed of any future development before the ‘Chinese whispers’ start.

We all know how dangerous these can be and all cause unnecessary anguish.

Name and full address supplied, Anna Valley.