Vintage tea party for the Birches

IT was a day to celebrate vintage themes at the ladies tea party held in the Spirit Store in aid of the Birches Alzheimer’s Centre.

The ‘afternoon tea gala’ was widely supported as people turned out to support the vital work of the Birches.

With a fabulous spread of cakes, pastries and colourful treats, the tea party saw guests turn out in their best vintage garb, complete with some unique hats for those taking part in the ladies and men’s ‘ best hat’ competition.

‘It was a fantastic day, and we were delighted local businesses and companies supported the event by donating lots of raffle prizes,’ said fundraiser Jean Gilson.

In particular, she paid a special thanks to Matthews Coaches, MaGees Chemist, and McEvoys for their support.

The competition for the best hat winners saw Rosalind Murphy and Leon Murphy crowned for their vintage efforts!

The tea party saw an estimated €1,700 raised for the Birches centre, which caters for people suffering with Alzheimer’s Disease or Alzheimer related dementia.

The Birches is partially funded by the HSE north east, but the centre has fund the remaining 60% needed annually to maintain the present level of care. Fundraising, therefore is essential to continue the centre’s excellent work, and very euro raised goes to the running of the Birches services and the new outreach service.

The centre also provide support services for the relatives of people with the condition, and a homecare service, to provide help at home for those caring for a loved ones with alzheimers.