A SUCCESSFUL return of an Ipswich charity's festive float raised more than £5,000, it was revealed today.Orwell Mencap Genesis' Christmas old time float returned to the streets of Ipswich and Kesgrave last month, a year after a lack of volunteers restricted its movements to the town centre only.
A SUCCESSFUL return of an Ipswich charity's festive float raised more than £5,000, it was revealed today.
Orwell Mencap Genesis' Christmas old time float returned to the streets of Ipswich and Kesgrave last month, a year after a lack of volunteers restricted its movements to the town centre only.
The come back was much welcomed, with residents donating a total of £5,426 to the cause, all of which will go to supporting the work of Orwell Mencap Genesis.
Nino Serritiello, head of Genesis, said: “We had great apprehension before deciding to re-launch the float because of the huge organisation required and the difficulties in finding volunteers.
“But we had such a great response from the people of Ipswich and Kesgrave that it is certainly on for Christmas 2007.
“The children came to stare out of windows as we went along the streets and came up to the float to look at the choir and manger scenes when we stopped or were in the town centre.
“Their excited looks really made it worthwhile and while we could only cover a small number of the Ipswich and Kesgrave streets, we hope all the children who did not have us go past their door saw us in town on the Thursdays.
“We want to express our thanks to the public for such generosity and the friendly greetings on the door step.”
Mr Serritiello also praised a number of Suffolk businesses, who supported the operation with vehicles, volunteers and specialist equipment.
The cash raised will go to providing new flooring for Orwell Mencap Genesis' skills centre.
The charity is already appealing for volunteers for next year's float.
Mr Serritiello said: “We want groups of friends or companies with staff who want to help out.
“We had two staffing groups who came out and really enjoyed themselves.”
To offer your help for next year, call Mr Serritiello on 01473 723888.
Did you enjoy the float? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk
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