An American singer-songwriter has boosted a campaign to further enhance a hospital’s support for dementia patients by more than £500.

Cody Pennington, an airman at RAF Lakenheath, wowed the crowd at the Apex in Bury St Edmunds on Saturday night as he supported the Forget-Me-Not Dementia Campaign in aid of West Suffolk Hospital.

The campaign, which was launched in partnership with the EADT, its sister Mercury titles and West Suffolk Hospital in Bury St Edmunds, is aiming to raise £25,000.

Mr Pennington, who was supported by local musicians Dean Austin and Sleeve of Hearts, had spent months planning the charity night including promoting at various pubs and clubs around the town. And as well as supporting the appeal, he also launched his new EP at the gig.

He said: “I can’t explain how amazing the show was – it was worth the months of planning.

“It was great to have the opportunity to help West Suffolk Hospital Charity and the Forget-Me-Not Dementia Campaign in particular.

“I would like to thank everyone who helped make the show, from the various musicians, to friends who helped put it all together. I couldn’t have done it without any of you – and the amazing crowd on the night.”

Dave Gooderham, fundraising manager at the hospital, thanked Mr Pennington for his support.

As the campaign closes in on £15,000 raised, three events this weekend will further boost the funds.

Staff member Paulene Gray will be hosting a cake sale at the main reception of the hospital on Friday morning while the charity will also be organising an awareness stand and collection at Bury’s Sainsbury’s store, which recently chose the Forget-Me-Not Dementia Campaign as its charity of the year.

And on Saturday Pakenham’s annual flower and produce show will also be supporting the appeal.

To support the Forget-Me-Not campaign people can donate online at www.justgiving.com/forgetmenotcampaign or in person at any of the EADT offices.

Alternatively, readers who would be interested in organising their own fundraising events can contact Mr Gooderham on 01284 712952 or by email dave.gooderham@wsh.nhs.uk