His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of the Royal County of Berkshire, Mr Andrew Try, joined staff and civic guests at West Berkshire Community Hospital to celebrate the vital role of volunteers at a summer garden party in the hospital’s therapy garden.

The Lord-Lieutenant opened the event with a speech praising the compassion and dedication of the hospital’s volunteers, who contribute in many ways, from spiritual care and companionship on the wards to maintaining the therapy gardens and supporting the Sunday services.

Also in attendance were Christine Stockwell, wellbeing therapist at Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, the Mayors of Thatcham and Hungerford and the Deputy Mayor of Newbury. Guests enjoyed meeting the hospital’s much-loved therapy dogs, who regularly bring smiles to patients and staff alike.

The Lord-Lieutenant’s visit highlighted the enduring importance of voluntary service in strengthening local communities and supporting the wellbeing of those in care.