Publish date: 5 July 2024
A flower-filled sailing boat is now blooming at Clifton Hospital in honour of late volunteer pianist Barry Evans.
Barry, who was 80 and died in February, entertained patients and staff at both Clifton and Victoria hospitals for more than 20 years.
The boat was gifted by Ribble Sailing Club and has “Thank you for the Music Barry” painted on the side.
Barry’s nephew, Chris Evans, was among those to “launch” it at a Clifton Hospital League of Friends presentation event.
He was one of several supporters sharing in the hospital garden sunshine who have been instrumental in fundraising or making a contribution at Clifton.
League chair Linda Beddows MBE also welcomed Cllr Karen Henshaw, the Mayor of Fylde, with consort Honorary Alderman Howard Henshaw, who has chosen the Clifton league as one of her charities of the year.
Also there were Lytham St Annes Lions (£3,500 towards new garden furniture) and Fylde Soroptomists (£2,000 towards tracksuits for patients who sometimes arrive at hospital without a change of clothes).
Another guest was Older People's Champion Cllr Joan Burrows, from Lancashire County Council, who made possible a grant for the League to buy presents at Christmas for patients.
Following the presentations, guests joined league members and hospital staff in a buffet prepared by the catering team while listening to a recording of Barry's music.
The League of Friends has been working for the good of Clifton Hospital since 1988 and has raised many thousands of pounds as well as supplying hands-on help. If you are interested in helping or becoming a volunteer, contact the League on 07518 782365 or email lofvolunteersclifton
