Fundraising event for care homes

1:40pm Friday 16th May 2008

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A PIONEERING charity set up by a war hero to provide homes for disabled people is today celebrating the tireless work of its supporters.

Leonard Cheshire Disability, whose homes include Alne Hall in North Yorkshire, is marking its 60th anniversary this year with a series of events, including its first Volunteering Conference.

The event is being staged in the Hospitium, in Museum Gardens, York, and will include debates, speeches and networking opportunities, as well as fun activities including a fashion show from the 1940s.

Organisers hope to attract up to 120 people from across the North East and York region.

Heather Candy, volunteer co-ordinator and a Friend Of Alne Hall, said the conference aimed to showcase the brilliant work of volunteers and bring them all together for a day.

The charity's Tea For Ability awareness and fundraising campaign will also be launched on the day with Udeni Salmon, head of volunteering support, talking about the difference volunteering makes.

The charity, which was founded by Victoria Cross winner Leonard Cheshire, an RAF pilot during the Second World War, also celebrated its anniversary at Alne Hall last Saturday.

Helen hailed the event as "a resounding success" which raised more than £1,300 for the Independence Living Equipment Fund.

This included a cheque, presented by Flt Lt Martin Wintermeyer, from fundraising on the base as part of the 76 Squadron's reunion on May 9.

Station Commander Group Captain Mark Hopkins opened the festivities, which were supported by Alne Brownies, Easingwold Scouts, York Tangent Ladies, Easingwold Lions, Queen Ethelburga's School and Alne Hall's two charity shops.

The Friends support group ran a cake stall and had a nostalgic look back at the 1940s, with many items reflecting the era from powered egg to gas masks.

Easingwold Town Band provided music for the occasion, while RAF Linton on Ouse's own catering personal served up the afternoon teas.

The afternoon was rounded off by a flypast by a Lancaster Bomber ,which circled Alne Hall three times.

"The atmosphere was absolutely fabulous," said Helen.