The Coleshill community has shown its caring side by supporting St Catherine’s Day Service’s Christmas Fayre and raising money to support disabled people who attend the centre.

At its base on Coventry Road, St Catherine’s Day Service provides meaningful activities both in and out of the centre for people with a range of physical, sensory and learning disabilities.

On Sunday 2 December, staff held a Christmas Fayre to raise funds for the sensory room and Coleshill residents responded in their droves.

The centre was packed as people of all ages picked up Christmas treats from the many craft stalls, had a go on the raffle, enjoyed a slice of cake or visited Santa’s grotto.

Two holistic therapists were on-hand giving massages for shoppers to enjoy in-between browsing the stalls.

And children enjoyed Christmas crafts and writing letters to Santa.

Many local craftspeople and businesses held stalls at the event, alongside Father Hudson’s staff who ran the raffle, tombola and other activities, served refreshments in the café, and sold items made by people who attend the centre.

Visitors could put their feet up in the café, enjoying hot samosas, sandwiches and delicious cakes.

The raffle was busy all day, with visitors vying to win fantastic prizes, generously donated by shops and businesses from Coleshill, Hams Hall, Atherstone and beyond.

Among the items up for grabs were gift vouchers, meals out, tickets to nearby attractions and football matches, and much more.

There was also a mountain bike paid for and donated by Michael and Julie Ford-Terry, with Neil Gascoine letting them have it at cost price.

Karen McPherson, manager at the day centre, said: “We’d like to thank the many businesses that donated items for our raffle. The generosity you have shown is truly amazing.

"And thank you to everyone who helped make St Catherine’s Day Service Christmas Fayre such an amazing day.”

Catney Chorus choir from Catherine-de-Barnes joined the fayre in the afternoon, entertaining with Christmas carols and songs.

Karen added: “They answered our plea for a singer when ours couldn’t make it. They were fabulous and brought a truly magical Christmas touch to the afternoon.”

Proceeds from the event will go towards refurbishing the multi-sensory room at the centre, which provides stimulation and relaxation for the people with complex disabilities.

While the figure is still being finalised, initial indications show the event raised well over £1,000 towards the refurbishment.

St Catherine’s Day Service is operated by Coleshill-based charity Father Hudson’s Care, which provides care and support to people who are vulnerable or experiencing great need.

To find out more, visit Father Hudson's