Comedy nights help boost hospital campaigner funds

TV star Stephen Tompkinson joined fellow performers on stage at the Westovian Theatre in South Shields, for a special two-date Laffalang show - written by playwright Ed Waugh.

Both nights were sell-outs with £4,000 raised on ticket sales alone. A raffle was also held so final total has yet to be confirmed.

Director and producer Gareth Hunter said: “The Laffalang was a great success and both nights were sold-out.

“The atmosphere inside the building was brilliant and everyone had a great night.

“We were honoured to have Stephen Thompkinson join us and all the cast were amazing.

“We set ourselves a target of £4,000 which we have raised in ticket sales alone which was fantastic.

“It really did make the shows extra special knowing they were raising funds for such a worthwhile cause.”

The Save South Tyneside Hospital campaign was launched following the launch of South Tyneside and Sunderland Clinical Commissioning Groups.

Path to Excellence programme.

Protestors are fighting against changes which they fear will see the downgrading of the hospital in Harton Lane, with a number of key services moved to Sunderland Royal Hospital. Health chiefs deny this.

The group has already enlisted legal help and launched a fundraising campaign in order to cover the fees.

Proceeds from both nights will be donated to the campaigns funds.