ON a beautiful summer’s day, members of the Giles Group in Alresford, with invited friends and supporters, met to celebrate its 20th anniversary.
The Giles Group for people with disabilities, and their carers, has been active in Alresford since 1994.
The annual garden party was chosen to stage the event, in the lovely garden of Peter and Fabia Wrigley, one of the founder members of the group.
In addition three other founder members were present: Mary Keer, Hazel Warland, and Tessa Purkiss, who are pictured cutting the anniversary cake.
Founder members were presented with a wine goblet and rose, in recognition of their effort and foresight in setting up the group. The anniversary celebration cake - made by Jacky Earthy, wife of the current treasurer - was decorated with red sugar poppy flowers: these were then presented as a gift to each guest present.
Supporters of the Giles Group were invited to the garden party, and enjoyed a lavish cream tea, with strawberries and cream. These guests included representatives from the Alresford and District Community Association, the Alresford Pigs, and the Alresford Flower Club. The group were also pleased to welcome Hampshire Councillor Jackie Porter.

Phil Voce, representing the Alresford Pigs and Age (UK) Winchester, praised the active nature of the group, and its 40 members. The group has monthly meetings with a guest presenter, a monthly minibus outing, and holds a weekly drop-in coffee morning in the town.