A HARMONICA player has delighted patients, staff and visitors at the Friarage Hospital with tunes and a cheque for £1,000 – raised through concerts and CD sales.

David Hewison-Sandyford, 65, of Bedale, brought his unusual harmonica collection to the Northallerton hospital and entertained people enjoying a coffee at its cafe hub.

It is the second time Mr Hewison-Sandyford has raised £1,000 for the hospital, but this time the money has gone to the MRI scanner appeal.

His wife Jennifer Hewison-Sandyford said: "He raises money through his harmonica playing, even making some CDs,” she said.

“He had already raised £1,000 about a year ago for the orthopaedic department after having two hip operations and he has carried on for the MRI scanner appeal.”

Mr Hewison-Sandyford said: “I carried on because of what the hospital did for me. I could hardly walk before I had my hip operations and once I’d recovered, I wanted to give something back.

“I toured care homes and that sort of thing asking for donations and made some CDs.”

Dr Upendra Somasundram, chairman of the Friends of The Friarage, said: “It’s wonderful that he cares enough to continue to fundraise for us and we appreciate that very much. I really enjoy his music.

“He played for us at a fundraising event last June at the Golden Lion during the drinks reception and it was very well received by all the guests.

"Work has commenced on the building to house the MRI scanner at the Friarage and a brand new machine has been ordered. Fundraising will continue until the equipment is installed."

For more details on the MRI scanner appeal visit www.friaragescannerappeal.org.uk.