SOUTH Western Ambulance Charity is encouraging local organisations across the region to host tea parties to celebrate our beloved health service and raise vital charity funds.

The NHS Big Tea will see companies up and down the country hold events to toast the NHS’ birthday on Friday, July 5.

It follows the success of last year’s nationwide Big7Tea to mark the NHS turning 70.

The South Western Ambulance Charity provides funding to benefit the public who use South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) services, and improves the well-being of its staff and volunteers.

Zoe Larter, Head of South Western Ambulance Charity, said: “Wherever you are in the South West, we’d love you to host your own tea party and invite friends, family and colleagues along to mark the occasion and raise valuable funds to help us go the extra mile for our exceptional people, our volunteer heroes and the communities served by SWASFT.

“You can hold the party on any date that suits you in late June or early July.”

The humble cup of tea has a long and proud association with the NHS. Originally served to patients in traditional fine cups with saucers and a teaspoon, tea was considered an important aspect of patient satisfaction and recovery.

If you would like to host your own Big Tea Party, please email: [email protected] to get all the necessary information.