Topcats charity in Pakefield celebrates launch of new facilities
Topcats event at Pakefield. Picture: MICK HOWES - Credit: Archant
A charity has celebrated the launch of two new facilities at their Pakefield headquarters.
Topcats event at Pakefield. Picture: MICK HOWES - Credit: Archant
There was plenty of smiles and excitement last Friday (March 17) as a new soft play area and skill zone were unveiled at Topcats charity, in Morton Road, Pakefield, by former Norwich City Football Club player Cedric Anselin.
The charity – which stands for Teenage Opportunities and Children's Activities – offers a safe, enjoyable and stimulating environment for more than 130 young people aged five to 30 with disabilities and additional needs.
Stewart Battrick, chairman of Topcats, said: 'It was absolutely fantastic. Lots of parents and carers turned up and the evening went exactly how we wanted.
Topcats event at Pakefield. Picture: MICK HOWES - Credit: Archant
'The cost of the new equipment is approximately £7,000 and it has taken two years to reach.
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'Thanks go to everyone who has donated or fundraised including Tesco, Gary Bennett, members of our staff and so many more people who supported us.'
During the launch evening young people from Topcats served canapés and mocktails to parents, carers and other attendees.
Topcats event at Pakefield. Picture: MICK HOWES - Credit: Archant
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The evening saw the opening of the repainted skills zone, which has been redecorated by young volunteers from the Prince's Trust, and will be used as an educational and computer room by the young people of Topcats.
Also, Mr Battrick explained the soft play area, which features a ball pit, climbing apparatus and a slide, will provide those who attend Topcats with an area where they can go and have fun.
He added: 'They love it and it was absolutely brilliant to see the smiles and excitement on their faces – it was a really wonderful moment.
'The soft area is mainly for the younger kids, but not exclusively as some of the adult service users enjoy using it as well.
'Our next aim is to purchase a new mini-bus to transport our young people to afternoon classes and trips.
'We also hope to raise funds to buy a hoist which will enable wheelchair users to enjoy the ball pit as well.'
To support Topcats visit: www.topcats.org.uk or contact stewartbattrick@gmail.com.
Do you have a Lowestoft story? Contact 01502 525832 or simon.ward@archant.co.uk.
