Charity fair raises £1,500 to help vulnerable adults

MORE than £1,500 was raised at a charity fair in Sonning Common on Saturday.

About 300 people attended the event in the village hall in Wood Lane, which was organised by and in aid of Greenshoots.

They browsed through handmade crafts, plants and seasonal gifts and produce grown by the charity at its base at Manor Farm in Peppard, including homemade apple juice.

Volunteers, trustees and staff greeted guests and served warm refreshments.

A raffle was also launched, with tickets available until December 16. Prizes include a case of Laithwaites wine, a meal at The Moderation in Reading and a bundle of gifts from the Bell Bookshop in Henley. Chief executive Frances Woolaway said: “We appreciate the heartfelt support from the local community, which is so friendly, generous and welcoming — they are very special neighbours.

“A big thank-you to everyone that attended and we look forward to welcoming them to Greenshoots on Thursday, December 4 for our festive market.” Greenshoots supports vulnerable adults with mental, learning and physical challenges through practical and classroom nursery training.

It aims to raise around £35,000 each year to sustain and grow its facilities and does so through regular fundraising events such as markets and an annual dog show.