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| English: Hungerford - Kennet And Avon Canal Going under this bridge leads to Hungerford Wharf. (Photo credit: Wikipedia) |
West Berkshire Mencap.
2015 as well as the last few years, has seen individuals involved in The Friendship
Group which meets every Wednesday, and Grow4all at Cottismore Garden Centre,
as well as bigger activities either held at the hall or supported by the Christadelphians.
The first of these activities in April was the 2nd successive Canal Trip in Hungerford,
organised by our late brother Phil Ashforth. The ‘Hungerford Rose’ was commandeered
for 2 ½ hours and 25 clients and their families were taken for a trip
along the Kennet and Avon Canal.
On the 16th May a Spring Fayre was held at the Christadelphian Hall in Lower Way,
Thatcham. This is an annual event, but this year, rather than raising funds for Mencap
– the Mencap organisers wanted to raise money for another worthwhile local
charity. It was decided in Friendship Group to raise money for Naomi Hospice. The
total amount raised was £690.00 - and Vodafone match funded to the value of
£350!
Sunday 5th July saw Mencap take part in Newbury Carnival, which was supported by
a member of the meeting, also acting as First Aider, and again, a First Aider and
support was provided by the meeting for their annual summer outing, in September,
to the Cotswolds Wildlife Park. ( even though I was there as a support – I
had a fantastic time!!)
The Mencap Fashion show on 27th October was supported by members of the meeting,
and both models and audience had an enjoyable time, as we did in December
at the Carol Service, again in the Christadelphian Hall. Unfortunately, due to other
events, not many from Mencap where able to attend, so our signer for the evening
was rather redundant!
The highlight for me was the annual Mencap Ball. Held at the Chequers Hotel in
Newbury at the end of November. It was for clients and their helpers, was a black
tie event, and was just magical!
To see the enjoyment that we can give, whether it be by our money, time or experience
is truly humbling, and God Willing, is something that we can continue to do.
- Jane Edwards
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