PUBS and clubs are beginning to show their support for the Yeovil Express FAST (Fund A Scanner Today) Appeal - but we would like more to join in with the fundraising.

The Express launched the FAST Appeal back in June to raise £20,000 to enable Yeovil District Hospital buy a new state-of-the-art scanner to help in the diagnosis of the bone disease osteoporosis.

The total raised so far is quickly approaching the £7,500 mark with at least another £2,500 yet to be banked - so the Express has still got a long way to go before it reaches its golden £20,000 target.

But now pubs and clubs in the area are getting involved to do their bit for the cause with landlords realising that the scanner is desperately needed by the hospital if it is to continue its important work and reduce the lengthening waiting lists.

The Chicago Rock Cafe in Yeovil is planning a party charity night on Thursday, October 3, and full details will be available shortly.

Chicago Rock's regional marketing manager for the South and South West, John Hicks, said: "We are more than keen to support local charities - and the FAST Appeal is very much a worthwhile cause."

The Armoury Inn at The Park, Yeovil, is to hold a charity day on Saturday, October 5, with a variety of fundraising events. Although the collecting will go on all day, the majority of the money-spinners will take place from around 7.30pm that evening.

Landlord Mark Deegan said: "When I heard about the FAST Appeal I was more than happy to give our support by putting on some sort of charity event. From what I have read and been told the hospital really needs this new scanner and if we can help so much the better."

Already the Beehive Inn landlord Mark Grose has put himself through the pain barrier for the FAST Appeal by completing last week's 23-mile charity sponsored walk from Huish Park, Yeovil, to the Avenue Stadium, Dorchester.

He is now organising a charity golf day for late next month and is looking for golfers and potential sponsors to give him a ring on 07759 899203.

Mr Grose said: "I've really got involved with the FAST Appeal and I want to do as much as I can."

The Westminster pub in Westminster Street, Yeovil, has also pledged its support to hold a fundraising event in the near future in aid of the FAST Appeal, as has the Alice Springs premises at Park Road.

Editor-in-Chief of the Yeovil Express, Ken Bird, said: "Although the main objective of the FAST Appeal is to raise the £20,000 the hospital requires, we would also like to raise awareness about the disease osteoporosis.

"Osteoporosis is a very painful and serious condition, yet people do not seem to think of it as such as it has not got the same emotive sound as heart disease or cancer.

"But if we can spread the word through the local pubs about the FAST Appeal I'm sure people will take time to learn more about osteoporosis.

"Can I take this opportunity, however, to thank all the pubs and clubs which have said they will support the appeal with a fundraising event. Their backing is very much appreciated - but I hope more pubs will join in with the FAST Appeal."

If your local pub would like to hold a FAST Appeal fundraising event then please let us know by phoning 01935-479811.