Festive Fundraising Success for Gosport Hospital Radio on Gosport High Street

An Early Start on the High Street

On Saturday 13th December 2025, a merry band of volunteers from Gosport Hospital Radio took to Gosport High Street for a full day of festive fundraising and community spirit.

From 8am, the team were hard at work setting up outside broadcast equipment, a gazebo, posters and a fantastic selection of raffle prizes, all in preparation for the much-anticipated Christmas raffle draw at 3pm. Despite the chilly weather — mostly dry with the occasional shower — the festive fundraising atmosphere remained firmly intact as Christmas shoppers filled the town centre high street.

Sharing Our Story with the Community

Throughout the day, many people stopped by the stall to chat with volunteers about the work that Gosport Hospital Radio carries out at Gosport War Memorial Hospital. There was genuine interest from shoppers of all ages, with some hearing about the station for the first time.

Conversations ranged from how to become a volunteer, to the different behind-the-scenes roles that help keep the station running smoothly — from presenters to fundraisers, technicians and committee members. Volunteers were able to explain how programmes are put together and how the station operates entirely thanks to community support.

It was a wonderful opportunity not only to raise awareness, but to highlight the positive impact hospital radio has on patient wellbeing. Many visitors were surprised to learn just how much a friendly voice, a favourite song or a simple dedication can brighten someone’s day during their stay in hospital.

Raffle Tickets, Requests and Radio Cheer

Raffle tickets sold steadily across the day, with generous support from the local community. Alongside ticket sales, volunteers also received plenty of music requests and shout-outs, helping to bring a lively and interactive feel to the outside broadcast.

Special Festive Visitors

Adding to the festive fun, both Father Christmas and the Grinch paid special visits to the stall. They delighted younger visitors — and plenty of adults too — by handing out sweets and posing for photos, spreading smiles all round.

A Fantastic Array of Prizes

As 3pm approached, excitement built for the big draw. The impressive array of prizes included supermarket vouchers, wine and chocolates, free entry to local activities such as soft play, a one-to-one personal training session, meals at local restaurants, puzzles, soft toys, a traditional Christmas cake, and even a return trip to the Isle of Wight.

The Big Christmas Draw

The draw itself was overseen by Chairman Paul, ably assisted by his festive team of “elves” and “Santa’s little helpers.” A crowd gathered as winners were announced, with many delighted supporters going home with a prize.

A Fantastic Amount Raised

Thanks to the incredible generosity of the Gosport community — through raffle ticket purchases, donations and prize contributions — the event raised an impressive total of approximately £680 (final total to be confirmed). Every pound raised will go directly towards supporting the continued running of Gosport Hospital Radio, helping the station to provide music, companionship and comfort to patients at Gosport War Memorial Hospital and across the wider community.

Thank You to Our Supporters and Volunteers

The station would like to extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported the day — those who bought tickets, donated prizes, stopped to chat, or simply offered words of encouragement. Special thanks also go to the other stall holders for their patience with the repeated Christmas tunes playing throughout the day, and for their warm support.

Finally, enormous appreciation goes to the dedicated volunteers who gave up their Saturday — many staying from early morning through to pack-down — to make the event such a success. Your commitment and enthusiasm are what keep Gosport Hospital Radio on the air and at the heart of the community.

Here’s to another successful year of fundraising — and to continuing to brighten hospital stays through the power of music.