A group supporting Cockermouth Community Hospital has presented two bird tables – the latest in a long list of items it has donated in the past 18 months.

Over that time the friends have given goods worth more than £8,000 to the hospital. These include a water dispenser, eight fan heaters, two radio/CD players, a DVD player, folding bed and two digital radios.

Treasurer Allan Green said: “There’s no air conditioning in the building and the sister said fans which could either heat or cool would be much appreciated by the patients.

“The sister also suggested the radios and DVD player, to keep people entertained. The DVD player can also be used to show patients DVDs explaining their treatment.

“The bed is for if a relative wants to stay over.”

The bird tables were also bought on the advice of staff.

Chairman Ken Archer said: “There had been some birds in the garden and the patients were taking an interest in them. They will be able to see the tables from the day room.”

The friends also bought two blood pressure machines and two syringe drivers.

Mr Archer said: “We don’t normally get medical stuff but we were asked to help out.

“I would like to thank everyone who has supported us.

“People have been very generous which is a measure of what the patients and their families think of the staff on the ward.

“They really appreciate their care and compassion.”