A 50-YEAR-OLD who slipped on some ice and broke her shoulder is raising money for the orthopaedic ward at Royal Preston Hospital, as her way of saying thank you for the care she received.

Amanda Woods, from Lansdown Hill, Fulwood, has rallied round her work-place and acquaintances to raise the prize money for her raffle tickets which are to go on sale at £1 each.

Her husband, Geoff, has even donated £50 towards the prize -- all the proceeds from the raffle tickets will go to the ward where Amanda spent one month recovering.

She said: "I want to reassure elderly people who are going into hospital not to be worried, because they do a marvellous job despite lack of resources.

"Everybody was lovely with me and I feel that as hospitals get put down a lot I wanted to raise money so they could have some good news for a change."

She explained: "I broke my shoulder blade and humerus in seven places and I was rushed into accident and emergency -- I was really upset because they had to cut up my new suit.

"It wasn't long at all before I felt much better because of the kindness I received from Mr Bale, the orthopedic surgeon and fracture clinic director who operated on me -- I really think the world of him.

"I have had to go back and visit the physiotherapist, Donna Griffin, for the last 10 months and she has shown nothing but the utmost professionalism and kindness ."

Amanda was also pleased that Mr Bale sent a letter to where she works, at CCA stationary, in Eastway, Fullwood, so that her time at work would be made easier.

CCA have agreed to help her with raising funds by making donations and printing the raffle tickets for her.

A spokesman for the hospital said: "It is a marvellous gesture and always very nice when a patient who has been treated by us feels the desire to raise funds -- the money will be very much appreciated." Unfortunately Mr Bale was unable to comment due to being away on holiday but Donna Griffin said: "It's lovely -- I don't know what to say apart from that I was just doing my job."

Amanda added: "People moan about waiting times but I realise how busy they are and I don't mind waiting 60 minutes when you are looked after so well."

To buy a raffle ticket, ring Amanda or Geoff Woods on 01772 862044.