Special celebration event for Mencap Society's landmark

A charity supporting people with learning disabilities held a celebration event for a special landmark.

Northallerton and the Dales Mencap Society is marking its 60th year at the Goosecroft Centre, in Northallerton.

Guests attended the celebration from a wide range of organisations, including Northdale, Chopsticks, Pendragon Trust, Mowbray Gateway Club, Royal Mencap Supported Living and Engagement Team, North Yorkshire Police and Community Safety Partnership, family carers and members of the local society.

Frits Rab, chairman, thanked everyone for attending and expressed his gratitude at seeing friends old and new, showing appreciation for the work of the local society.

Lord Hague of Richmond sent a message from Paris to congratulate the society on its hard work over the years developing and sustaining Mencap for people who have a learning disability and their families and carers. He also reflected his time as president of the society and sent good wishes for the future.

Members of the Monday Club read out their poem about "What Mencap Means to Me," written by individuals who have a learning disability. The poem will now be shared locally to demonstrate how important attending activities at the Goosecroft Centre is for them.

There was a buffet and music from Jazz in the Afternoon, before a celebration cake was cut by Mr Rab, Stephen Woodall, vice president and Sue Lear, development manager.

For more information about the work of Northallerton and the Dales Mencap Society contact Sue Lear via admin@northallertonmencap.org.uk or call 01609 778894.