WHEN Eric and Liz Vines wanted to thank Tetbury Hospital they did not just send a thank-you card - instead the couple decided to raise money for the hospital by selling their vegetables at a car boot sale.

They have now been raising much-needed funds for the hospital for several years.

This year’s crop was exceptional and with the added benefit of fine weather for their weekly trips to the Dursley and Aston Down car boot sales they amassed a very tasty donation of £625.

Liz explained how Dr Tony Walsh, a trustee at the hospital, prescribed gentle exercise when her aches and pains meant she could not move very well.

Liz said: “He recommended gardening, and bought us our first packs of seeds. We enjoyed it so much we continued year after year. Now Foxley Nurseries kindly help by providing us with peat and sundries at a special rate as they know it’s for the hospital.”

Zena Dalton, Tetbury Hospital director, visited Liz and Eric in their garden to accept the cheque on behalf of the charity.

She said: “The generosity of local people is fantastic. Liz and Eric have supported the hospital for many years and have seen it change through the decades. It is important that we develop services closer to home to ensure we can provide the best possible care for those who have given so much.”