A COLD, windy and cloudy afternoon failed to dampen the enthusiasm and support for Marhamchurch Methodist Chapel's 'Garden Party and Cream Tea' afternoon, held to celebrate their anniversary for 2010, as well as raise funds for sufferers of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and the Merlin Therapy Centre at St Austell.

Cornwall has the highest incidence of MS on mainland Britain and until now those people suffering from the condition have been forced to travel out of the county to find specialist therapy and support centres.

The project has been funded entirely by voluntary efforts and has so far raised an amazing £2 million pounds, but in order to make the project fully operational a further £250,000 is needed.

Roger and Sue Blewett kindly acted as hosts at Wooldown Farm, and the event was opened by Mike Ford – a voluntary worker from the centre, who explained the tremendous benefit of having such a centre in Cornwall, how donation money had been raised and was still needed to drive the project forwarded.

Support during the afternoon was given by Clive Blake, who entertained everyone with his poems and acting. Music was provided by Dick and Anne Dingle ­­– affectionately known as 'A Bit O' Luck'.

Cream tea and cakes were in abundance and a big thank you was given by Roger at the end to everyone who had helped to make the event such a success. A total in excess of £1,000 was raised.