A charity Fundraising Hub was officially re-opened in all its glory today after a marvellous makeover – with the Mayor of Walsall cutting the ribbon and a surprise VIP visitor delighting the crowd.

Walsall Healthcare’s Well Wishers charity, which is based in the hub in the main atrium of Walsall Manor Hospital, now has much more room to sell books, handmade cards, jigsaws, knitted baby clothes and toys, with additional storage space and shelving.

Paul Assinder, Non-Executive Director who Chairs the Charitable Funds Committee said: “I’m pleased to welcome you here today to a really important event for the charity.

“The Fundraising Team is doing a fantastic job for the organisation to help us support staff and to help make things a bit more pleasant for those coming into hospital.”

The Mayor Councillor Rose Martin said: “Doesn’t it look wonderful!

“Well Wishers has been one of my chosen charities during my year as Mayor and it’s been a pleasure to work with Georgie and the team. Through your support and the hard work and dedication of the Fundraising Team the charity has made such a difference to the experience of patients using the Manor Hospital and Community Services including the Stroke Rehabilitation Unit at Hollybank House and Goscote Hospice. I was able to visit Goscote Hospice last year and staff were doing a fantastic job supporting patients having palliative care.

“It’s an honour to be part of this opening today and long may the Fundraising Team continue to make a difference – please continue to support them.”

After the ribbon cutting and a round of applause, visitors were able to tuck into some tasty treats provided by Kitchen of Spice, a gorgeous Well Wishers cake baked by Emma Simmons and cupcakes courtesy of June’s Occasional Cupcakes. But not before a very special appearance by Humphrey the charity’s mascot who went round saying hello to visitors and offering a sweet treat to all.

Musical entertainment was provided by Rich Austin and today’s re-opening was supported by Well Wishers patron Martin Gethin, former British lightweight boxing champion, and BGT star Eva Abley.

Georgie Westley, Fundraising Manager, said the event had been an opportunity to thank the charity’s supporters too and it was good to see some of its regular supporters.

“We’ve been busy out and about in the community with our Well Wishers roadshow while the refurbishment has been taking place but we’re so pleased to be back in our home now,” she said.

“We look forward to catching up with our regular customers and meeting new ones so do pop in to see us.”

Keep an eye on charity news via the website www.walsallhealthcare.nhs.uk/charity/ and follow Well Wishers on Facebook @wellwishersWHC and Twitter @WellWishersWHC