THE Big Push has hit its £30,000 target in just seven months, raising enough cash to buy 50 new wheelchairs for Russells Hall Hospital.

Since we teamed up with the Dudley Group NHS Charity in July, the money has been rolling in thanks to generous donations from readers, fundraisers and businesses.

We have hit the target quicker than many of us could have imagined and the final £600 came from Homescapes, a Cradley Heath manufacturer specialising in bedding, furniture and homeware.

Vikram Avasthi, managing director at the firm, based at the Corngreaves Trading Estate, said: “Homescapes are pleased to sponsor the last, much-needed wheelchair for The Big Push campaign.

“Established for 18 years and selling nationwide and across Europe, we are a homeware company based in Cradley Heath and with many of our employees living in the Dudley borough, it is a pleasure to give back to and support our local community and hospital.”

Halesowen News:

Staff from Homescapes l-r: Joanne Evans, Phil Wright, Stephen North and Kate Jeavons

Diane Wake, chief executive of the Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust wished to thank everyone who has made the campaign a success.

She said: “It is fantastic and heart-warming that so many local businesses have donated money to support The Big Push campaign helping us to achieve our target of £30,000 for 50 brand new wheelchairs.

“The new wheelchairs will make a massive difference and really help improve patient experience.”

Pete Wallace, assistant editor at the News, added: “We are absolutely delighted with the success of The Big Push – raising £30,000 in such a short time is testament to how much the public love their hospital and want to help it however they can.

“Our heartfelt thanks go to every single person, business, school and community group who has helped us along the way.”