Losing and raising pounds

Members of three East Sussex slimming groups who have shed hundreds of pounds during the year have celebrated the festive season by raising thousands of pounds for charity.

More than 70 members of Slimming World groups in Crowborough and Hailsham held their Christmas party at the end of November. Entry to the event was a donation of food for local Foodbanks and a fund-raising raffle proved to be just the ticket for two East Sussex charities.

The event at Horam Village Hall was organised by Becky Wiggington who runs the three Slimming World Groups. The raffle raised more than £2,000 for Absolute Angels, a homeless charity in Eastbourne, and East Sussex Wildlife Rescue and Ambulance Service (WRAS).

Large amounts of tinned, long-life food as well as festive treats were also collected for the foodbanks which support families in crisis in the Crowborough and Hailsham areas.

Becky said: “The people who come to our Slimming World groups throughout the year are like a family and this just proves how amazing they are. They’ve all done well during the year and we all just wanted to do something to let our hair down, celebrate everything they have achieved and support local charities in doing so.”

But the result had far exceeded her expectations. “I really didn’t think we would raise so much money, nor was I prepared for how much food we collected for the two foodbanks. I want to thank the local companies who donated raffle prizes, and all our members who took part.” Becky added.

Iain Luxford from Crowborough Foodbank said the food would make a massive difference. “The pandemic has brought real hardship to many families, lots of whom who were already facing tough problems. Local foodbanks, like those up and down the country, have seen a big increase in the number of people who are being referred for support.

“Fortunately we consistently see generosity from our community and groups like Becky’s. I hadn’t expected the large car-load of food donations and there was one for the foodbank in Hailsham too! On behalf of everyone whose Christmas will be just a little bit brighter this year as a result, we want to say a massive thank you.”

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