Hope for Emily fundraiser success

Despite the pouring rain people still came enjoying stalls from cakes, face painting, lucky dip, hook a duck, tin can alley and crafts from local craft sellers to raise funds for Emily Milner from Horsham.

Born at just 29 weeks and weighing just 2lb 1oz, she suffered brain damage during her traumatic birth and has since been diagnosed with Periventricular Leukamalacia, cerebral palsy affecting all four limbs which means she is unable to walk or even sit up unaided as well as other health-related problems.

Emily’s devoted parents Nickie and Carl held this recent fun-day in order to reach their £65,000 target needed for an operation in America which will help Emily take those precious first steps.

The event also included a wonderful show from Tony the Magician which had the children in stitches, a fantastic display from the Horsham Bluebelle majorettes and a set from the HB band which had everyone up on their feet dancing.

The barbecue was a hit with the hardcore chefs cooking under a gazebo. It was sponsored by Roffey Co -op, The Roffey Club and Horsham Sainsbury’s who between them donated all the food.

Lots of local businesses donated to the raffle and auction and £700 alone was raised on the two raffles held. (A full list of companies that donated can be found on the Hope for Emily Facebook page).

The auction which included a signed snooker cue, Rugby World Cup tickets and a signed dartboard racked up £1,500 at the evening quiz.

The evening was topped off with a sponsored hair shave by Adam one of the bar staff who has been named Shaggy.

The grand total raised on the day was a whopping £4,250. This will be paid into Emily’s Tree of Hope justgiving account.

Emily’s mum Nickie Milner said: “We would personally like to give a special mention to Jane and her family, Paul and his son Mike, Terry and Tracie who worked tirelessly for five weeks to make it into a huge success.

“Our next event is our annual charity ball at Cisswood House Hotel on October 3 which last year sold out. We would love some local businesses to get involved so please get in contact of you can help.

“We are also very lucky to have two companies representing us in the elephant trial this year - Taylor Made Uniforms and The Holbrook Club so do pop by and say hi!”

Pictures contributed.