Kind-hearted fundraiser donates sitting tribute to key workers at Chesterfield hospital

Andrew Woodard, who lives at Langwith Junction, raised £1,250 to buy a bench that serves as a tribute to all who have worked hard during the Covid-19 pandemic at the Chesterfield Royal Hospital.

The NHS-blue bench sits proudly in plain view just outside the main entrance to the hospital, emblazoned with the words: ‘Thank you to our amazing NHS Staff. Thank you to our key workers’.

Andrew said: “I’m a local lad, born and bred in Derbyshire, and I wanted to do something to recognise the incredible work they’ve done in treating and looking after people – not just those who have tested positive for Covid-19, but everyone who’s needed help.

“I grew up around here, this is my local hospital. My daughter Sian was born here and now works here on the Emergency Management Unit (EMU) so it’s a big part of my life.

"This bench was something practical that I could raise money to show how much I, and those who helped to raise the money, appreciate what they’ve done.”

Andrew set up a GoFundMe page at the beginning of April with the intention of raising the £1,250 needed to get the bench made.

He knew of a man called Chris Kennedy, who owns a company called Roll and Scroll based in Grantham, that produces solid steel benches that are cut to a design.

Andrew added: “He’s made hundreds over the years, including a number for armed forces and Remembrance Day and an incredible one that was given to Sir Captain Tom Moore on his birthday.

"I’m pleased to see that the bench has pride of place and people are using it.”

A spokesperson for the hospital said: “It looks tremendous, it’s such a bold NHS-blue – you can’t miss it outside the main entrance.

"This is something permanent with a lasting message and we would like to thank Andrew and everyone who donated to his cause.”