Ballet dancers, bouncy castles balloonists and a bucking bronco were all part of the fun at the Benenden Hospital Open Day and Summer Fayre on Saturday (July 12).

The free event saw crowds stream in to sample a wide variety of entertainment, activities and a chance to take a tour round the hospital’s facilities.

Among the entertainment on offer were performances by ballet and Morris dancers as well as music from the Cranbrook Town Band. There was also a wide range of stalls selling produce and homemade goods.

Woody the One Man Band, a bouncy castle and a balloon-animal maker kept youngsters busy while cream teas, a barbecue and a bar made sure everyone was kept refreshed.

More than 200 people took tours of the hospital on the day visiting the new laminar flow theatres where staff explained how the state-of-the-art technology and buildings were making a real difference to patients.

Members of the Benenden Healthcare Society London North branch made a formal presentation to Hospital Director Ken Hesketh of plaques for three benches situated around the local walk ‘the loop’. The benches date back many years to a time when Tuberculosis patients rested during their daily exercise routines. They are still used today by staff who enjoy walks during their breaks.

Helen Freeman, Benenden’s Hospitality Manager and event organiser, said: “It was a happy day and a great success. We hope that by holding our annual open day and summer fayre, people can see our doors are wide open to everyone. We want to encourage as many people as possible to use our facilities should they have a healthcare need and we are proud to show off our facilities to members of the public.”

Benenden Hospital treats members of the Benenden Healthcare Society, NHS patients under the Choose and Book scheme and private patients. The hospital is set in the countryside near Benenden and is convenient for residents of Kent and East Sussex.