Organisers of a traditional afternoon tea raised ?600 for The Children’s Centre. The event was the idea of Suzanne Ali and Linda Lewis – both from Port Erin - who organised a scrumptious Vintage Afternoon Tea at The Pavilion Cafe and Restaurant in Port St Mary. The pair brewed up the idea after being inspired by reading 'The Vintage Tea Cup Club', a romantic novel by Vanessa Greene. After they discussed a recent talk on the history of The Children's Centre, Linda and Suzanne had the idea to host their own vintage afternoon tea event and chose to dedicate the first one to raising funds for the Island’s leading charity for families and children. The tea ladies began collecting vintage cups and saucers to use for the occasion, and a taster afternoon was held at Linda's home in preparation for the main event. Calling themselves ‘The Vintage Tea Ladies’ they put on the perfect afternoon tea for all of their guests at The Pavilion Cafe in May. The event included a variety of stalls and a raffle. Susie Cox, Fundraising Co-ordinator at The Children’s Centre, said:

“We'd like to say a big thank you to Linda and Suzanne, and everyone who came along to the event, for supporting The Children's Centre. The vintage afternoon tea was a great idea and we’re extremely grateful for the funds raised which will go towards supporting our charitable projects.”

The Vintage Tea Ladies have plans to hold many more afternoon teas, and help support other charities across the Island, as well as The Children's Centre.

Photo - Left to right are Linda Lewis and Suzanne Ali, both from The Vintage Tea Ladies, Susie Cox, Fundraising Co-ordinator at The Children’s Centre, and Claire Cox, from The Pavilion Cafe and Restaurant.