Bermuda Healthcare Services celebrated the spirit of the season yesterday by giving away 150 turkeys, with the first 100 given to patients, 40 going to members of the general public and the remaining given to staff.

The idea for the giveaway began 11 years ago when the BHCS and the Brown-Darrell Clinic cancelled their annual Christmas party and decided to distribute turkeys to those in need, giving away more than 1,000 for free across the island since that time.

Founder and executive chair Ewart Brown said: “It is a very special pleasure to give back to our community, especially at the holiday season. We strive to help make Christmas a bit brighter and a bit less stressful for families during these difficult economic times.”

Dr Brown added: “Whether through our annual turkey giveaway, sponsorship of elite Bermudian athletes, our support of PHC or our scholarships to medical students, it is our intention to support our community and through our example encourage wider corporate support for the people of Bermuda.”