We would like to say a big thank you to everyone who has helped Beatrice to continue with our work by making donations to help cover our costs. Derek Hilyer, our Chairman, along with Di Mackay, one of our volunteers, were invited to visit the Leek Masonic Hall. Dave Blakeman, one of the members, presented a cheque for £500, saying "We are very pleased and proud to support such a worthwhile cause that helps children with additional needs.
We have also recently received a further gift of £1439 from Leek Town Council, in respect of fundraising by the 2022-23 Mayor, Councillor Bill Cawley. It brings the total raised for Beatrice by Councillor Cawley during his year in office to £2,386, which has helped enormously over a difficult period when operations have been affected by Covid and canal restrictions.
And we have been given a generous donation of £500 raised at the time of the funeral of the late Mike Beardmore. Mike was a great lover of canals and very active in restoring and publicising them. Mike and his widow, who presented the money to Beatrice, often saw the boat and she was delighted to support the charity that she has known for many years. We are very grateful for the gift.