Kagando Hospital and the Christmas Puzzle

Posted on March 2, 2007

It may only be the end of February today, but I've got some news about Christmas for you.

Yes, yes, I know we haven't had Easter yet.

But festive puzzle master Gordon Gray, of Northall, has already set his Christmas charity challenge for this year.

How's that for being organised?

Hold your horses, though - the puzzle won't be available to tackle until December 8.

Just giving you a little advance notice.

Last year's puzzle has raised £3,000, split equally between the Friends of Kagando Hospital, Uganda, and the roof fund for St Mary's Church, Eaton Bray.

Since the annual puzzle was launched, back in 1991, it has raised an amazing £24,065.

Why the Kagando Hospital, you ask.

Well, that was the St Mary's 2006 parish project.

Physiotherapist Rebecca Baldock has been working at the hospital, and has been sending back regular updates to the United Kingdom.

Rebecca's father Martin is a former Dunstable Grammar School head boy, who went on to become a vicar, and her grandfather Eric Baldock ran a chemist's at the top of George Street, in Dunstable, until his retirement.

Her friends and family are sure to be glad that she's flown home for a brief holiday.

And she'll be giving an illustrated talk at 8pm on Monday, March 5, at St Mary's, Eaton Bray.

PS. Don't forget to circle the date of December 8 in your diary. That's the day to dust off your thinking caps for Gordon's latest perplexing puzzle.

Source: Anne O'Donoghue, Dunstable Gazette, 28 February 2007