TODAY marks 70 days until the NHS turns 70 and to mark the special occasion Bradford Hospitals’ Charity is asking people across the district and beyond to raise a cuppa to celebrate.

The NHS Big7Tea will be a chance for people around the country to come together on Thursday, July 5, and toast 70 years of the NHS.

Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (BTHFT) will be celebrating the occasion with a special tea party for people who were born in July 1948 – the month the NHS came into existence.

Old photos and memorabilia will also be on display.

Bradford Hospitals’ Charity – the official charity of BTHFT – wants to roll out the celebrations beyond its hospitals, by encouraging the public to hold their own tea parties.

They are urging community groups, schools, libraries, GP surgeries, or even groups of friends to get baking and enjoy a brew with their own NHS Big 7Tea party. 

Hayley Collis, Head of Fundraising for Bradford Hospitals’ Charity, said: “Tea brings us together. It breaks down boundaries and is a symbol of comfort and community.

“Whether you decide to have a traditional tea party and bake some delicious treats, or simply get together for a cuppa and a natter with friends, we would be extremely grateful if you celebrated this momentous occasion by supporting Bradford Hospitals’ Charity.

“We also hope the NHS Big 7Tea will help us spread the word about what Bradford Hospitals’ Charity does and how you can get involved.”

Bradford Hospitals’ Charity is one of more than 250 NHS charities based around the UK. 

If you want to take part, email charity@bthft.nhs.uk to request a fundraising pack.

Or to make a donation, visit www.justgiving.com/campaigns/charity/bradfordteachinghospital/nhsbig7tea