A CHARITY that supports families of children with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions held a coffee morning in Winchester for the first time.

Sebastian’s Action Trust, which has bases in Hampshire and Berkshire, held the event at Rick Stein on High Street, Winchester to bring awareness to their cause to the local area, which also included a visit from the Deputy Mayor of Winchester, Cllr Derek Green.

The charity was established in 2004 following the death of nine-year-old Sebastian Gates, whose last wish was to create a holiday home to give seriously ill children the chance to spend precious time with loved ones, away from the rigours of treatment schedules and hospital life.

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In 2011, the charity opened The Bluebells, a holiday respite site in North Waltham that offers short breaks for supported families throughout the year.

The facilities include a hydrotherapy pool, music room, cinema room and many more. The charity more recently acquired a new site in Berkshire, The Woodlands, where families can also visit for respite.

Abi Hurst, community fundraiser at Sebastian’s Action Trust, said: “The overall aim is to raise awareness and get our name out in the local area. Winchester is very in touch when it comes to fundraising so getting our name out there is important.

“Even if we get one new supporter from today then that is better than nothing, and it has been a great excuse to come down to Winchester and spend time in the area."

The coffee morning raised £145. 

The charity also plans to hold an event on June 27, a lunch at Lainston House in Winchester.

For more information and to book tickets, visit sebastianactiontrust.org/lainstonlunch or call (01344) 622500.