STAFF, parents and children got behind the launch of the Guardian Angel's appeal at York Hospital.

Special displays have been set up around the hospital to let patients and visitors know why the £300,000 appeal is so important, and how it will change the face of the area's high dependency paediatric care.

Jim Easton, chief executive of York Hospital, said: "Everyone who attended the Guardian Angels event had a wonderful time, and there is a real air of excitement across the trust as a result of the launch of the campaign.

"We are overwhelmed with the response so far from local businesses. I'd like to thank them on behalf of staff for giving so generously. Every contribution makes a difference, not matter how small, and we look forward to hearing from other people who would like to support the campaign.

"Thank you also to everyone involved in making the campaign a success so far, including all our staff on the children's ward and the Evening Press."

Meanwhile, offers of help have been flooding in from kind hearted residents and businesses.

From the offer of a live band to provide music at a charity evening to a martial arts fundraiser, people have been phoning and emailing to make suggestions.

Businesses have also offered to hold Christmas raffles and sponsored fundraising events, such as parties or sponsored challenges.

Earlier this week we reported how hundreds of staff at bus operator First York will help raise thousands of pounds for the campaign.

Bosses have pledged to match whatever total their employees finally reach.

Proving charity begins at home, the Evening Press Staff Liaison Council Council (SLC), which represents our 320-strong workforce, also hopes to raise at least £5,000 during a 12-month fundraising drive.

Dr David Beverley, consultant paediatrician at York Hospital, said: "I am delighted with the initial response to the appeal and very glad that First York is leading the way among York businesses."

WHY not support Guardian Angels over coffee and cake? Reader Anne Sumpner has organised a coffee morning tomorrow at Beckside Cottage, 8-10 Main Street, Bishop Wilton, York, from 10.30am to 11.30am.

Updated: 10:12 Thursday, October 13, 2005