THE Friends of York Hospital are celebrating their 50th birthday with the launch of a Golden Jubilee appeal.

To mark their special anniversary they are seeking to raise the £14,000 needed for a renal dialysis machine.

Dr Colin Jones, consultant physician at the renal unit, said: "The unit is delighted that the Friends have chosen to commemorate their 50th anniversary by raising money to purchase a renal dialysis machine.

"This will help us to extend our range of care and will avoid the inconvenience of patients having to travel to other centres for treatment."

The scheme to form a League of Friends was launched on January 30, 1953, and, though much has changed in the intervening half-century, what has remained constant is the hard work of the volunteers who raise funds and offer their support to many wards and departments.

George Wood, the deputy chief executive of York Health Services NHS Trust, said: "On behalf of all staff and patients who have benefited from the Friends' great achievements over the last 50 years, I would like to say a big thank-you.

"We realise how lucky we are to have such a dedicated team of volunteers on board. I'm sure the launch of the Golden Jubilee appeal will be a huge success, and wish the Friends a very happy birthday."

To mark the birthday and to raise money for the renal unit some special mementoes have been designed for people to purchase. They include two pieces of commemorative fine china - a beaker and trinket box, both with gold embellishment.

These items will be on sale at the hospital reception area on the first Wednesday of each month.

A series of fundraising events will also take place, including a Dickens At The Barber's Shop evening on March 14, at Clifton Parish Church. This will feature humorous readings by the Dickens Society, and songs form the likes of the Main Street Sound Choir.

Tickets cost £4, with all proceeds going to the appeal.

For more information on the mementoes, the concert, or the appeal in general, please phone the Friends' office on 01904 726762.

Updated: 10:53 Saturday, February 15, 2003