Thousands raised by Mid Suffolk chairman for children’s charity

Mid Suffolk District Council chairman James Caston has presented a cheque of £4,400 to Stowmarket ASD Saturday Clubs.

Throughout his term as chairman councillor Caston held several fundraising events including a formal dinner at the Officers Mess at Wattisham Flying Station, a wine tasting and tour at Burnt House Vineyard and donations through the chairman’s “GoFundMe” page.

The Stowmarket ASD Saturday Clubs provide social activities for children and teenagers with autism spectrum disorders aged five to 18 years old. The clubs allow children with opportunities to socialise with others in a non-competitive environment where ASDs are completely understood and catered for.

Councillor Caston said: “It has been an honour to have Stowmarket ASD Saturday Clubs as my chairman’s charity this year. They have an incredible impact on many wonderful young people’s lives.

“This incredibly hard-working club provides a nurturing environment where they can flourish, make friends and explore their talent, whilst supporting the parents and guardians and also giving work experience to graduates.

“In my fundraising I have been supported by Bramford Parish Council who donated their bottle bank revenue, incredibly a third of the money raised. I would also like to express my gratitude to Wattisham Flying Station Officers Mess who supported the charity and let us use their unique location and an incredible meal at nearly cost price.

“Thank you to the many kind people who supported us at the events. It’s been a wonderful year and I’m so happy to be able to raise money for an organisation that brings so much happiness to Mid Suffolk.”

Scarlett Anster-Perry, chair of the Stowmarket ASD Saturday Clubs, added: “For a small charity like ours, being chosen as the chairman’s chosen charity provides a huge boost to our fundraising. The club is run by volunteers and without fundraising, we are limited to what services we can provide.

“I would like to extend our thanks to councillor Caston for his support over the last year and to all the people who have donated to the Stowmarket ASD Saturday Clubs.”

For more information about the Stowmarket ASD Saturday Clubs visit https://stowmarketsaturdayclub.co.uk/