Bexhill Gateway Club fair

There was lots to offer the many Christmas shoppers including cuddly toys, home-made cakes, jams and chutneys, bric a brac, a tombola and raffle.

A more unusual gift, being hand-made on the spot, were personalised badges, which Peter Clarke and his partner Madeline were kept busy producing throughout the event.

The badges were made to include the Gateway logo, the year and the buyers name and Madeline said the reason the badges were so popular was because, "They are personal and are something that people like to have as a keepsake."

Volunteers helped keep shoppers refreshed by serving much appreciated teas, coffees, cakes and snacks.

The fair raised 265.00 which, club leader Francis Rowland, explained will go towards the club's Christmas meal she said, "We take 100 people out via Westfield to look at the Christmas lights and then have a Christmas dinner at Johns Cross cafe. It's a lovely day out."

The Gateway Club is for adults with learning disabilities and Francis said anyone who is interested in joining is welcome to go along to the club which is open every monday night between 7-9pm. She said,: "It's just 50p to come in, we have a subsidised tuck shop, and there are always different things going on, live entertainment, bands, bingo, quiz nights, discos etc."

For further information on joining the club call Francis (01424) 223354.