Staff members Keely Maybank and Jenny Gray at the balloon stall
2 September 2009
More than 3,000 people turned out to help celebrate the 100th birthday of Queen Mary's Hospital for Children on Saturday (22 August) at a summer fete held in Sutton Arena.
As part of the centenary celebrations, the fete was organised to help raise money for the hospital, including building an outside play area for patients. And it certainly paid off, as organisers have already banked £9,000 with more expected to come in.
With a marching drumming band, two dance troupes, a display by the Metropolitan Police dog team and a magic show, there was plenty to see at the arena while guests also took the opportunity to browse more than 50 stalls.
Fancy dress winner Bibi Vaughan, pictured here with her mum
And if that wasn't enough to entertain the whole family, there were a number of competitions, including a fancy dress contest, running throughout the afternoon. There was also a face-painting stall, a Pimms tent and a grand raffle, which included fantastic prizes, such as a Harrods's hamper and signed football shirts.
Organiser Sue Collis said: "It was fantastic. When we opened the fete at 12 o'clock, a queue of people stretched back from the gate - it was a great start to what turned out to be a brilliant day.
"There were loads of families strolling around, enjoying the stalls and watching the entertaining acts in the arena and that was really lovely to see. People of all ages were there, from grandparents to the little ones, and there really was something for everyone.
Metropolitan Police dog show
"There were also some recognisable faces around, as former nurses and current staff members came along to enjoy the day too. It all made for a great atmosphere.
"The weather certainly helped too as it was sunny for most of the day. We were really lucky.
"It was a lot of hard work to organise, but I don't think it can get much better than seeing people giving money to a good cause while having a nice time. It was a great feeling to see people leave with a smile - not to mention lots of prizes from the tombola and raffle! It was definitely worth it.
"I would like to thank everyone that helped to make this day what it was, including our sponsors, friends and staff of the hospital and all of the stall holders."
