People are being urged to get together with a cuppa to raise funds for a hospital charity on the 71st anniversary of the NHS,

The NHS will be marking its 71st anniversary on Friday July 5 and people are being asked to host tea parties to raise funds for the King George and Queens Hospital Charity.

People can raise money through donations, competitions, raffles or quizzes.

Tea has always been associated with the NHS, originally being served to patients in traditional fine cups and saucers, and was considered an important part of patient service.

Even today tens of thousands of people enjoy tea in hospitals, GP surgeries and clinics.

Jenny Petchey, clinical nurse specialist from the Trust’s Dementia team, said: “Whether it’s a builder’s brew or a fruity rooibos, we want everyone to raise a cuppa, so dust off the old china, rally your friends, family and colleagues and come together to celebrate the NHS’s birthday.”

Anyone interested in hosting a NHS Big Tea event can contact the fundraising team on 01708 504 335 or download your free NHS Big Tea pack at: www.nhsbigtea.co.uk