Smiling faces leads to holiday centre donation

Law firm Rotheras Solicitors has donated £2,500 to Derbyshire Children’s Holiday Centre after being inspired by the smiling faces of youngsters as they wait to go on their holidays.

Angie Thompson, office manager at the law firm’s Derby office in Amen Alley, said she was inspired to nominate the charity after witnessing happy children waiting to be taken to the Skegness holiday home.

The charity’s minibus picks up and drops off children at the Bonnie Prince Charlie statue at Cathedral Green, not far from Rotheras’ office.

Derbyshire Children’s Holiday Centre provides five day stays to hundreds of children across the county who meet the nomination criteria through financial hardship, and other reasons, such as caring for relatives.

Angie said: “The Rotheras charity fund was set up to ensure we can award donations to independent charities that make a big difference to people’s lives in our local community.

“I suggested the DCHC to be considered for a donation as I’ve long been aware of this charity and have always admired the cause.

“Our branch office is just a short walk from the meeting and drop off point and I often walk past the children as they are waiting excitedly to start their week’s adventure – it is such a joyful sight!

“It’s fantastic that the charity provides a much-needed holiday to children who might not otherwise get a break.

“Spending a few days away where the children can make new friends and lifetime memories is so important.

“All credit to the volunteers and organisers at the holiday centre who work hard to make this possible.”

Alan Grimadell, chair of the Derbyshire Children’s Holiday Centre, said: “Many thanks to Rotheras for this fantastic donation.

“We rely entirely on fundraising and donations and every penny is put to good use. The donation from Rotheras will also enable us to put more smiles on the faces of children so they too can benefit from a much-needed stay by the seaside.

“It’s great that just the sight of busloads of children arriving and returning from their stay in Skegness has prompted this generous donation from Rotheras.”