AN ANNUAL fundraising ball has helped raise over £10,000 for St Catherine’s Day Service in Coleshill to fund vital refurbishments.
The 112th annual ball took place at the National Motorcycle Museum on Coventry Road and attracted people from across the local area to raise funds for the charity.
St Catherine’s Day Service has served disabled people from Coleshill and further afield since the 1980s.
Though the service offers a wide variety of activities and opportunities, their building – a converted school – is in desperate need of renovations to bring it up to a standard that matches the service provided.
In total, £10,600 was raised – a new fundraising record – by those present with an increased number of attendees and supporters recorded.
Support from local businesses proved to be invaluable in making the night a success – which was made possible by the committee of volunteers and fundraising officer Ginny Cullen.
Work has already begun on the first of the planned renovations by upgrading and expanding the sensory garden.
When finished, the garden will offer a stimulating environment from adults with complex care needs to explore their senses through touch, sound, sight and smell.
Businesses from Birmingham, Solihull, Coventry and Tamworth offered their support through sponsorship, advertising, donations and buying tickets.
The cheque was presented by Chris Loughran, chair of the committee, to Helen Anson – manager of St Catherine’s Bungalows – and Karen McPherson, day service manager.
A tour of St Catherine’s facilities helped volunteers understand how the money they raised will help make a difference to the lives of local disabled people.
