A slimming company has become the latest to support a hospital's fundraising appeal after pledging to organise events and activities across its area.

Slimming World consultants based in West Norfolk have chosen to back the Excel Appeal, which was launched by Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King's Lynn.

The ExCel Appeal, which is supported by the EDP, aims to raise £50,000 for specialist equipment, such as falls prevention kit, recliner chairs, and dementia software, which will all improve the hospital's care of frail and elderly patients.

The decision by Slimming World means staff and members of its groups in the region, such as King's Lynn, Dersingham, Hunstanton, Downham Market, and Wisbech, will raise money for the appeal throughout 2016.

Christine Szewc, a Slimming World consultant who runs groups in King's Lynn and North Wootton, said: 'Slimming World supports a national charity but we also adopt a local charity and this is a cause which is close to everyone's hearts.

'We have an increasing ageing population, and many of us will grow old and need the equipment the hospital wants to buy.'

She said members of the Slimming World groups would organise fetes, clothes swaps, and other events where money would be collected for the appeal.

Raffles are also held frequently at the group meetings, with prizes donated by supermarket chains in the area.

A website has been set up to raise funds, which can be accessed at www.justgiving.com/qehkl-excelappeal-slimmingworld

'We have set a fundraising target of £5,000,' Mrs Szewc said.

For more information on Slimming World visit www.slimmingworld.co.uk/

You can help fundraise in a variety of ways – and we are keen for you to get in touch so we can promote your fundraising events.

For more information contact the hospital's fundraising executive Laurence Morlaas by calling 01553 613373 or email Laurence.morlaas@qehkl.nhs.uk

Are you fundraising for the appeal? Email nicholas.carding@archant.co.uk