THE residents, their families and all the staff of Sue Ryder Care at Stagenhoe would like to say a huge thank you to Comet readers. As the 2007 Comet charity of the year, the specialist neurological care centre just outside Hitchin has had amazing succ

THE residents, their families and all the staff of Sue Ryder Care at Stagenhoe would like to say a huge 'thank you' to Comet readers.

As the 2007 Comet charity of the year, the specialist neurological care centre just outside Hitchin has had amazing success with events, sponsorships and donations bringing the final total raised through The Comet-led special beds appeal to over £45,000.

Area fundraising manager for Sue Ryder Care Barbara Burnett said: "The depth of support we have had from Comet readers has been amazing."

Fundraising highlights of 2007 include Greg Dedman walking 500 miles across the Pyrenees into northern Spain and raising over £8,000 in sponsorship, Liquid and Envy nightclubs helping boost Greg's sponsorship by over £4,000 through their own events and Barclays Bank supporting with volunteers and donations. Stevenage Town Centre Management adopted the home as their first ever charity of the year and not only raised over £4,000 but also raised the profile through their impressive town centre events.

Supporters have walked across mountains, raced balloons, baked, organised sponsored walks and treasure hunts, made jam and marmalade and walked across burning coals, all to support the appeal.

Mrs Burnett added: "There are so many individuals and groups to thank and we really would like to take this opportunity to not only show our appreciation but also stress the difference their support has made to the quality of life to our residents, who will benefit from the new specialist beds and chairs that will make day to day living more comfortable.

"The £45,000 raised, will supply air flow mattresses which ease the discomfort of those who are not able to move to adjust their position, along with special beds that tilt and shape to fit individual physical needs.

"The purchase of a range of specialist chairs will enable those with swallowing and breathing difficulties who are not able to sit using standard armchairs, to experience a wider world where they are able to be moved safely and easily. In short, this will make the world of difference to our residents.

"2007 has been absolutely fantastic for Sue Ryder Care - Stagenhoe. Thanks to The Comet raising awareness of the work of Sue Ryder Care and the importance of our special beds appeal, we have gained the support of new friends - individuals, groups, companies and organisations. They in turn, have offered support through donations, volunteering and hosting their own fundraising events on our behalf.

"£45,000 is an incredible amount to have raised and we are so proud that Comet readers have helped us get this far. Of course, this is not the end of the appeal and there is still a desperate need for further funds but to have achieved this much in only a year is a wonderful testimony to both the kindness and generosity of Comet readers and indeed to the work and reputation of the Sue Ryder Care centre."

Care centre manager Fran Short said: "We have already had beds on loan into the centre to assess their suitability and fitness for purpose for the people who use our services and will shortly be confirming arrangements for the replacement of our current bed stock and specialist mattresses.

“In addition we have already been able to purchase three new multi-functional wheelchairs of a sturdy design to enable more residents to enjoy access to services in our local community. “The many generous donations we have received will now enable us to upgrade the range of products required to care for people with complex care needs. A comfortable bed or chair makes a world of difference to a person’s enjoyment of life, enables nurses and carers to operate efficiently and effectively and minimises risks to individuals such as falls and pressure sores. “An enormous thank you to all our supporters – you really have made a difference to the work of Sue Ryder Care Stagenhoe.’