Visitors were entertained at a hospital's annual garden party for the last time, at the weekend.

For almost 40 years, the highlight of Tindale Crescent Hospital's fundraising social calendar has been its annual garden party.

Sadly, as the hospital, near Bishop Auckland, faces closure next year, this time-honoured tradition has taken place for the final time.

Two of the organisers spoke with pride of the achievements over the years since the Tindale Hospital Helpers formed a hospital radio in the 60s.

Chairman Mary Hodgson said: "All the luxuries the hospital has, we have bought over the years. We have literally bought everything that the NHS doesn't provide.

"Over the years we must have raised more than £100,000."

Nellie Bowser said the hospital holds a special place in their hearts and it is a part of history.

The two women have been awarded MBEs for all the hard work they have put into raising funds for the hospital. and as they are both in their eighties, they feel perhaps it is time to call it a day.

They will continue with their efforts, however, until the hospital closes its doors for the final time.

Mrs Bowser said: "A photographer attended the garden party so that there is some sort of record of the history when the services move to the main hospital in Bishop Auckland. There has been somewhere set aside for them.''

As usual, crowds of visitors supported the garden party and even the fine weather held out.

Mrs Bowser said: "I would say we raised well over £1,000 and we had a lovely day."