MUSIC and medicine may not seem to mix but a Bude man who has strong links with Stratton Hospital has helped make them ready bedfellows with the wholehearted backing of the community.

As a result, a drive for £1-million has led to major structural changes and the refurbishment of the community hospital serving Bude and district.

Mr Terry Bale launched the appeal at a special service held in Bude Methodist church on June 27, 2010.

He recalls: "Many people scoffed at the idea and considered it was a pound too far.

"However, the Cornish people always respond to a worthy cause and how well the people of Stratton, Bude and districts have used their fund-raising abilities to raise the sum of over £500,000."

For the full report, and a round up of the region's news and sport, see this week's edition of the 'Post'.