Minstead Trust raises cash to replace freezers at Furzey Gardens and Minstead Lodge

A NEW Forest charity is helping social businesses keep their cool during the heatwave by helping them replace old fridges and freezers.

The Minstead Trust, which helps more than 220 people with learning disabilities to acquire work skills, raised more than £4,000 to replace old appliances at Furzey Gardens and Minstead Lodge wedding venue.

More than 130 people contributed to the appeal in just a few days, ensuring these venues can keep generating crucial income for the charity and provide much-needed work experience.

Without the replacement appliances both venues were facing the prospect of struggling to run efficiently.

This would have had a knock on effect on customers at the venues and on the people with learning disabilities supported to work there.

Josh, who works in the tea rooms at Furzey Gardens, said: "Without equipment like a freezer, it makes it more difficult for me to do my job properly.

"There are many things we keep in the freezer, and without them the tearooms at Furzey Gardens can’t run well."

Dawn Wood, director of development for the trust said: ‘We’re hugely thankful to everyone who donated to our fundraiser appeal.

"We are overwhelmed by the generosity of our supporters, whose money will go towards making sure that Furzey Gardens’ tearooms and our other venues continue to provide a great food offer for our customers.

"Our successful venues mean more opportunities for people with learning disabilities to train for work and show our communities what positive difference they make, when given the chance."

Find out more about Minstead Trust at minsteadtrust.org.uk