Community fete raises funds for new heart monitoring equipment

A community event has raised more than £2,000 to help Giffords Surgery purchase a new electrocardiogram (ECG) machine.

The equipment will support the surgery in monitoring patients with suspected heart conditions and help improve care for local residents.

Organised by the Friends of Giffords Surgery, the event at the surgery included a barbecue, arts and crafts, refreshments, traditional afternoon teas, dancing, games, baking competitions and more than 40 stalls selling crafts and local goods.

Trustee Gillian Elson said the event achieved more than its fundraising goal.

She said, “It demonstrated the strong support our community has for the surgery, strengthened relationships with patients and local residents and showed what can be accomplished when people work together towards a common goal.

“Most importantly, it has enabled us to invest in equipment that will improve patient care for years to come.”

The partners at the surgery thanked Melksham residents for their support and said the new ECG machine will directly benefit patients.

They said, “It was fantastic to see our patients, the local community, staff, volunteers and the Friends of the Surgery come together to make the day such a wonderful success.

“We are especially grateful to everyone who gave their time, donated prizes, sponsored activities or simply came along to enjoy the event. We hope this will become a much-loved annual event for many years to come.”