The Lord Lieutenant of East Sussex Mr Peter Field has just unveiled a plaque to commemorate the centenary of 100 years of Lewes Victoria Hospital.
One hundred years to the day (2 Feb) the original Lewes Victoria Hospital in Nevill Road was opened by HRH Princess Henry of Battenburg, youngest daughter of Queen Victoria.
Back then the hospital cost £7,336 for the land and building and £672 for the furniture and equipment. Now, technology and treatment has changed beyond recognition and now for example, the cost of the new bone scanner alone is some £50,000.
Chairman of the League of Friends Nick Darby says,
“The hospital has gained a special place in the hearts of local people and the dedicated staff without the support of so many who have given time and donations the hospital would not have been able to keep up with advances in technology and medical treatment. The Lewes Victoria is now one of the most up to date and flexible community hospitals in the South of England.
Over the 44 years since the League was founded local people have donated no less than £4.2M. During 2010 a number of events are planned to celebrate this important centenary”.
These are:
* Thursday 6th May an event for staff past and present.
* Saturday 26 June to Sunday 11 July there will be a variety of 40 shop window displays in Lewes including one in the foyer at the Town Hall.
* Saturday 3 July Open Garden event in Ringmer.
* Saturday 31 July Lewes Victoria Community Hospital Summer Fete.
* Wednesday 8th December Carol Concert at St John`s Church.
Photo: Left to right Mayor of Lewes - Amanda Dean, Modern Matron - Lucy Scragg, Head of Unscheduled Care for NHS East Sussex Community Health Services -Alice Webster, The Lord Lieutenant for East Sussex - Mr Peter Field, Intermediate Care Manager West - David Jones, Chairman of the League of Friends - Nick Darby, Interim Chair NHS East Sussex Downs and Weald - Rita Lewis
