A SOUTHAMPTON social club has raised more than £10,000 for a children’s charity making a difference.

Members of Swaything Working Men's Club have been fundraising for Southampton Children’s Hospital Charity Piam Brown ward for cancer patients. 

The funds will go towards children aged up to 16 in the hospital's care. The money will be spent on a playroom, trips, parent facilities, specialised equipment, and education. 

The club hopes to raise as much as possible with continued fundraising efforts.

Members have run many events including theme nights, holiday celebrations, and socials which have helped raise a total of £10,000.

Swaything Working Men's Club has been running for 125 years and is part of a country-wide men's club association with over 200 members. 

Club secretary Ken Huxstep, 64, said: "We've chosen the ward because it has a connection to our members.

"In 2010 a member's child was admitted to the hospital and since then we have always been great supporters of the hospital. 

"Our members quite like all the good we've done and it feels nice to support a good cause. 

"We fundraise for a lot of things like putting up a community defibrillator and a memorial picnic table but the hospital is one we have long term.

"The money is always needed."

Southampton Children’s Hospital's Piam Brown ward looks after around 120 new patients every year.

Rachel Funnell, Piam Brown Ward Charity Coordinator, said: "Enormous thanks goes to the Swaythling Working Men’s Club for the ongoing support we’ve received over the years. 

"All the staff on the Piam Brown ward are so grateful for their thoughtfulness and generosity.

"Particularly continuing to raise funds for Southampton Hospitals Charity through the pandemic, and now, as people from all walks of life tighten their belts. 

"Their support really does make a difference."

The Piam Brown ward known as “the happiest sad place” for its cancer care facilities is part of Southampton Hospitals Charity which raised £4.6 million between 2018/19. 

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