A near sell-out variety show at Cromer's Pavilion Theatre last night has given an appeal for the town's new hospital a doubly-grand launch.

More than 450 people packed the end-of-the-pier venue for a night of 'good old-fashioned' variety which is expected to have raised between �2,000 and �2,500 to provide art works at the new Cromer Hospital, which is now under construction.

The �20,000 appeal will see sculpture, paintings, photography and poetry, by local professionals and students, enlivening the �15m complex which is due to open in autumn next year.

Chris Bailey, who organised the show with Emma Jarvis, arts co-ordinator for Cromer Hospital's parent body, the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals, said: 'It was a highly-successful night with over 90pc of seats taken and the acts all got a warm response.'

The all-Norfolk show was compered by magician and entertainer Olly Day and also featured young dancers from Marlene's School of Dance, Keith Skipper, Elvis and the Bluesueders, blues soul and jazz group the Stilhouettes, and young string quartet Fame.

'For �14.50 people got a good two-and-a-half hours' entertainment and had a thoroughly-enjoyable evening,' added Mr Bailey.

Art plans for the new hospital include a large construction in the grounds, along with works reflecting the area's history – and include some floral pictures donated by local millionairess Sagle Bernstein in her �11m bequest to the hospital which is paying for its rebuild.

A fashion show is also planned for the art appeal. It will be held at the Mundesley Manor hotel on June 10.

For more information about the arts project call 01603 287870, or email emma.jarvis@nnuh.nhs.uk or visit www.nnuh.nhs.uk/arts/