Sun shines on SSAFA Staffordshire's summer garden fundraiser

17 September 2021

Postponed from July, the annual garden fundraiser for SSAFA Staffordshire and the Tri Service & Veteran Support Centre in Newcastle-under-Lyme has at last been held at the Old Hall Madeley, courtesy of Gary and Simon White. It has so far raised close to £1,000 to be divided between the charities. 

Rain had played a part in the event’s postponement, but according to organisers, the weather was fantastic as was the turnout by local supporters of SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity and the Tri Service & Veteran Support Centre. 

Among the many attractions on the day were bushcraft demonstrations, military memorabilia, pyrography demonstrations, the Staffordshire War Gamers, 435 Newcastle-under-Lyme Squadron RAF Air Cadets, The Cheshire Bugles and Drums, and a Ferret scout car. 

Kathy Munslow Divisional Secretary of SSAFA Stafford, Newcastle-Under-Lyme & Maer, Staffordshire, said: “It was a great event for all concerned and we would like to thank all of our volunteers and supporters who worked tirelessly to make the event a success and to the public for coming along and supporting us on the day. Funds raised have not yet been fully counted but we are close to £1000, thank you all for your generosity.” 

Guests included the Deputy Lieutenant of Staffordshire Pritpal Singh Nagi and his wife Ruby, the Mayor of Newcastle under Lyme Ken Owen, Mayoress Rachel Eaton, and the High Sheriff of Staffordshire James Friend and his wife Sanda.   

Kathy added: “Our final thanks are to Gary and Simon for their help and support and generosity in allowing us to host the event in their garden. Thank you both.”