A Cheshire East charity is celebrating three decades of supporting children and young people with additional needs and disabilities.

Friends for Leisure has announced plans to host a special fundraising gala dinner to celebrate its 30th anniversary.

The charity provides social and leisure opportunities for children and young people with additional needs and disabilities aged between five and 21 across Congleton, Macclesfield, Crewe, Knutsford, Sandbach and Disley.

Through youth groups, sports, drama, bowling and holiday activities, the charity helps tackle isolation and loneliness while giving young people the chance to enjoy everyday friendships.

Amanda Hunt, General Manager at Friends for Leisure, said; "This gala dinner is an opportunity to celebrate everything Friends for Leisure has achieved over the past 30 years, but it's also about looking ahead to the future. Every ticket purchased and every pound raised will help us continue providing life-changing opportunities for children and young people with additional needs and disabilities who might otherwise experience isolation and loneliness. We hope businesses, families and supporters from across Cheshire East will join us for what promises to be a fantastic evening."

The gala comes at a crucial time for the charity who earlier this year announced it had been forced to introduce charges for some of its services due to increasing financial pressures.

A black-tie event, it will take place on Saturday, October 17, at Congleton Golf Club.

The evening will begin with a welcome drinks reception before guests enjoy a three-course meal, live entertainment from local band Dr Bruff and the Push, fundraising activities and an opportunity to celebrate three decades of helping young people build friendships, confidence and independence.

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The event is adults only and tickets cost £55 per person, including a welcome drink, three-course meal and evening entertainment.

To reserve tickets or find out more, email [email protected] before Monday, August 31.