Cheers!
A community-owned pub in Bentley, near Ipswich, has raised a glass – and £6,110 – for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
The Case is Altered, run entirely by volunteers, selected EACH as its Charity of the Year after being nominated by long-time supporter Pam Lovell.
It sparked a major fundraising drive involving monthly quiz nights, raffles and special events.
The largest single contribution came from a ‘posh afternoon tea’ in November, featuring prosecco and raising £1,000 alone.
Volunteers also organised raffles at other events throughout the year, while villagers generously donated prizes to help boost the fundraising total.
“We’re a very community-minded village, and everyone has been so kind and generous,” said Kate Spicer, Chair of Bentley Community Pub Ltd.
“We’re grateful for all the support we’ve received and extremely proud of the amount raised.”
EACH volunteer John Skoyles visited the pub during one of its quiz nights to explain more about the charity’s work.
“People were bowled over and moved by what they heard,” added Kate.
“We always like to pick a local cause, and anything involving children is particularly emotive.
“It’s an incredible charity and one we were very proud to support.”
John later returned to collect the cheque on behalf of the charity.
EACH supports families across East Anglia and has three hospices, including The Treehouse, in Ipswich.
“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone at The Case is Altered and the wider Bentley community for their outstanding support over the last year,” said Ali Butler, EACH’s Senior Community Fundraiser for Suffolk.
“Raising £6,110 is a fantastic achievement, and every penny will help us continue providing vital care and support to children, young people and families.
“We can’t thank everyone enough for their generosity, hard work and commitment.”
The Case is Altered became a focal point of village life when residents came together to save the pub more than a decade ago.
The Bentley community bought it in February 2014 and reopened the venue that Easter.
Volunteers have been at the helm ever since, helping transform it into a thriving community hub that opens from Wednesday to Sunday.
