Ref. 28420-27A BUSINESSMAN has donated a £100 Christmas hamper to help raise funds for children with special needs.

Following our story about Brenda Wheeldon's party for Brimble Hill School on New Year's Eve, she was contacted by Robert Chequer, a senior partner in Prestige Communications in Corporation Street.

He has donated a Sainsbury's hamper containing chocolates and other festive goodies to Mrs Wheeldon for her raffle.

Over the past three years Mrs Wheeldon has organised a party in the Crossways suite at the Moonrakers pub in Stratton, to raise cash for Brimble Hill Special School, where her son Harry, seven, is a pupil.

Mrs Wheeldon, who has known Mr Chequer for years, said: "It's great that Robert has decided to donate this to us.

"I have written to more than 100 firms but only a few have offered us items to raffle."

Mr Chequer said: "When I heard that donations were needed I approached Mrs Wheeldon with the offer.

"The firm likes to support children's charities."

Tickets for the party, which includes a buffet and a disco, are £10 for adults and £5 for children (under twos go free).

It starts at 7.30pm. For more information call 01793 704724.