VOLUNTEERS and staff at a new charity office have benefited from extra funds as they opened the doors.Don Standish from Deben Valley Mark Masons Lodge handed over a cheque for £500 to Make-A-Wish Foundation UK's regional developmentexecutive, Paula Slater.

CHARITY workers at their new office have benefited from extra funds as they opened the doors.

Don Standish from Deben Valley Mark Masons Lodge handed over a cheque for £500 to Make-A-Wish Foundation UK's regional development executive, Paula Slater.

The charity aims to turn the wishes of children living with life-threatening illnesses aged between three and 18 into reality.

The charity's new regional offices at Robertsons Boat Yard, Lime Kiln Quay, Woodbridge, also welcomed volunteer, Caroline Nickerson who helps in the office.

Ms Slater said: "As we have become more and more active in this region we have found that we needed to open a permanent full time office. I do have some volunteers help to man the offices but if there is anyone who has just a few hours to spare and would like to be involved with a super charity then do please telephone me."

Make-A-Wish also held a family fun day at Cliff Lane Primary School, Ipswich, on Sunday when £1,200 was raised.

Around 300 people turned up to the event despite the drizzly rain. Children were spoilt for choice with activities ranging from pony and motorcycle rides on the Honda Goldwings who travelled from as far as Lowestoft, a merry-go-round and various stalls and tombolas.

There was also live music and line dancing.

June Balaam, a volunteer for the eastern area, said: "Obviously the weather did affect the turnout but nevertheless we still had a lot of people come and support the event.

"Everyone enjoyed themselves and the most importantly we helped raise money for a very good cause."

The aim of the Make A Wish Foundation is to grant the favourite wishes of children living with life-threatening illnesses.

Since the organisation was set-up in 1986 children across the country have had their wishes come true thanks to the good work of the volunteers and the people who support their events.

Make A Wish are also holding a sponsored walk at 10am in Trimley St Martin on September 15. Call June Balaam on 01473 311745 for more details.

Travelcare branches throughout the region are collecting foreign coins and selling 'wish pins' until the end of September on behalf of the charity plus raising funds in other ways.

During Make-A-Wish Week from January 20 to 24 next year, Ms Slater is doing two jailbreaks and needs business people to take part - one in Christchurch Mansion, Ipswich and the other at Colchester Castle.

April sees Ms Slater arranging her first golf day on April 17 at Hintlesham Hall. To find out more, call Ms Slater on 01394 386788.

www.make-a-wish.org.uk