A CARE home in Midsomer Norton has presented a donation of more than £1,000 to local charity, Time is Precious, raised over the festive period.

The donation was raised at Somer Valley House’s Christmas Fayre in December, which welcomed more than 200 community members for independent stallholders, Santa’s Grotto, a festive photo-booth, Christmas crafts with Santa’s elves in their workshop, seasonal food and drink, and a Christmas tree lighting.

Residents joined staff on the day to present the cheque, and 85-year-old resident Pauline Barratt, said: “What a joy it was to be there when the donation was handed over. I was thrilled to have been part of the whole journey, from raising the money to the presentation of the cheque.

“Many of us have used children’s departments in local hospitals at some point, so knowing this wonderful amount is going to a fantastic cause fills me with happiness.”

Also based in Midsomer Norton, Time is Precious is dedicated to improving the hospital experience for children and their families, particularly through enhancing facilities at the Royal United Hospital’s Children’s Ward.

The charity is voluntary run and has been running since 2011. It was started up by Neil and Nicky Halford in memory of their son Ben who died from cancer in 2010.

The charity aims to create a more comfortable and relaxed atmosphere for children and their families in hospital or at home.

Emma Curtain, the front of house manager at Somer Valley House, added: “We are delighted that the event was so successful and that we managed to raise such a fabulous amount of money to support this charity.

“We’d like to thank the volunteers who gave their time to sell raffle tickets, take photographs in the photo booth, and serve food and drink, and everyone who came along to support such a worthy cause in our community.”