On Wednesday 28 June Newark Mencap held a coffee afternoon in our church hall.

Mencap have  hired out our Church Hall from Monday to Thursday for the last couple of years to run their ‘Avenue Programme’ for people with learning disabilities.

The hall was full to overflowing with the regular attendees, volunteers, family members and friends. 5 members of the church also attend to offer our support. The coffee and cakes were great (and very good value for money) and the raffle and tombola were extremely popular. I understand a significant amount of money was raise to help pay for a day out.

What was the best thing about the event though were the smiles. Everyone seemed to have a big grin on their face all afternoon.  It was so lovely to see that the people using the services Mencap provide were so happy, and the people who volunteer and help out clearly enjoy their work hugely as well.

A lovely, heart-warming afternoon.

The church is very pleased to be able to work in partnership with the charity to deliver this fantastic service to local people.

Mark Taylor