Donors thanked for helping Hangleton pensioners enjoy festive treat

Two councillors have thanked the people and businesses who helped raise more than £3,000 to give pensioners in Hangleton a festive treat.

The money was raised and given out to local groups by Councillor Dawn Barnett and Councillor Tony Janio, who represent Hangleton and Knoll.

Councillor Barnett said: “Christmas can be a very lonely time of year for some people, particularly for elderly residents who may have recently lost a partner.

Councillor Dawn Barnett

“For this reason Councillor Tony Janio and I have made it our mission over many years now to raise money to give a festive boost to some of the excellent groups who work with and help older people in Hangleton and Knoll.

“Christmas 2014 was our most successful fundraising effort so far with just over £3,000 of donations from local businesses and indivduals.”

She said that most of the money went towards Christmas parties at Churchill House and Aldrington Place.

It was also used to take “26 people from the Get Together Club to the Downsman pub for a slap-up festive meal”.

Councillor Barnett added: “At these events I can confidently say that we achieved our objective of making sure everyone had a wonderful time.”

She said the rest of the money raised was distributed to local initiatives for older people through the Hangleton and Knoll Project.

They included Alexander Court, Forget Me Nots, Crafty Adults, the Knoll Lunch Club and groups organising singing, pilates, short mat bowls and tai chi.

She praised the volunteers who run the various groups and activities and thanked everyone who gave a donation.