Patients given the gift of words thanks to local bookshop

The generosity of local booklovers is set to benefit patients at the Queen Victoria Hospital thanks to a scheme run by East Grinstead-based The Bookshop.

The quintessential English book shop asked its customers to consider purchasing a new book for a stranger, someone unable to come to The Bookshop themselves for whatever reason. Staff at the shop then beautifully wrapped each donation in brown paper, complete with luggage label and string, writing four clues on the front of each indicating what the title might be. The mystery packages were then donated to Queen Victoria Hospital who will be able to give the mystery books to some of its patients.

Sarah Gillett, Manager of The Bookshop (pictured), said: “Whilst I was a student I worked at the Queen Victoria Hospital and my mum still works there. I’ve lived in East Grinstead my whole life and I really wanted to give something back to the community. I’d like to say a big thank you to our thoughtful customers, some of whom ordered books in especially as they knew if they were in hospital those were the type of books they’d like to read.”

Jo Thomas, Director of Nursing at the Queen Victoria Hospital, echoed thanks to Sarah and her customers saying: “The community of East Grinstead are so supportive of our hospital and I know our patients will love these enticing packages and the crisp, new books inside. On behalf of the hospital and our patients I’d like to thank everyone involved in this thoughtful scheme.”

For more information please contact the QVH Press Office on 01342 414508.