Thank You Tea: 

Our final 50th Anniversary Event was a thank you tea for 100 South Wilts Mencap volunteers who have helped over the years, hosted by the Mayor of Salisbury Mrs Bobbie Chettleburgh in the Guildhall. “It was a great occasion,” said Chairman Brigadier Greg Read, CBE, “with more than 120 people present who have worked in our Shop, run our club, minibus and caravan and helped with fund raising, joining with friends from organisations such as Riding for the Disabled, Dolphins Swimming Club and Second Salisbury Scouts. It was just a small thank you for all these splendid volunteers have done for the community and our learning disabled friends.”

A special thank you was given to three longstanding and invaluable volunteers, though the Chairman made the point that everyone in the room deserved to be honoured. The Mayor spoke of the great value of volunteering to the local community and presented gifts and flowers to three long standing members who have contributed tremendously over the years. Mrs Maureen Thomas (who runs the New Horizon Gateway Club, Mrs Angela Jay, who for many years ran the charity’s Holiday caravan, and Mrs Jill Mortimer who has contributed in so many ways over the years.