A pub landlady has reflected with pride after hosting a charity cheque presentation to hand over money from her father’s Will. Virginia Chater made the donation to East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) at The Star Inn, in Wenhaston.
Her late father, John Leathley Chater, was an Anglican priest for more than 50 years. He left £68,140 to the charity and the total was boosted by an additional £517.80 raised from an autumn fair at the pub in October.
Mr Chater had a deep-rooted passion for the area following his time as a soldier in the East Anglian regiment. During his work as a priest, he was devoted to supporting children in his community and described them as the “jewels of life”.
Virginia had no idea her father planned to leave money to EACH. She only found out when his solicitor read the Will.
“He was a passionate supporter and servant of those less fortunate in his congregation, driven by his desire to see a world of fairness and equality,” said Virginia.
“He invested his time selflessly and was especially devoted to supporting children in his community. He always said they were the jewels of life and, because of that, we were very happy when we found out about his incredible legacy donation.
“It made complete sense. His last act was to ensure he could continue to support the jewels he fought so passionately for during his life.
“It’s a great comfort to know that in this way he’ll be continuing his life’s work and I hope others will be inspired to follow his example in supporting such a worthy charity.”
Virginia said her father was also passionate about East Anglia.
“Although my father travelled widely, he never lost his love for this beautiful part of the country,” she said.
“It was his favourite place and, in his work as a priest, he devoted his time to the communities he served, always with humour and enthusiasm. He was a wonderful, intelligent and vibrant man – a devoted husband to our mother and a loving father to his four children.”
The Star Inn’s autumn fundraiser took place in October. Donkey and tractor rides, live music and enchanting story-telling sessions were among the attractions. There were also various stalls on the front lawn.
Virginia said: “It was a great day for all the family and very successful. We were proud and delighted to raise funds for a very special charity in our community and one we feel proud to support.”
The pub hopes to raise more money for EACH from another fundraiser in July. EACH supports families and cares for children and young people with life-threatening conditions across Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire and Essex.
It has three hospices – The Nook, near Norwich, The Treehouse, in Ipswich, and at Milton, near Cambridge. To find out more about leaving a gift in your Will to EACH, click here.
