South Norfolk Civic Reception raises vital funds for local charity

This annual event serves as a celebration of the Chair’s year in office, highlighting the Council’s ongoing initiatives while providing an opportunity to support important charitable causes. This year, Cllr Sacks proudly chose to support The Ted Ellis Trust – Wheatfen Nature Reserve, raising an impressive £1,081.17 throughout her time in office. A significant £945 of this total was raised as part of a charity raffle at the civic reception.

The Civic Reception was held at the John Innes Conference Centre, where guests were invited to take part in tours of the newly refurbished Horticultural Services Department. This included the state-of-the-art Controlled Environment Rooms and the 100m² Growth House. These facilities offer researchers flexible plant growth areas, with the ability to create optimum growing conditions by managing light, temperature, and humidity levels. Guests also enjoyed tours of the Historical Collection.

The reception was attended by Lord Lieutenant Lady Dannatt, civic heads from across Norfolk, district and parish councillors, local businesses, and conservation and naturalist groups.

A key highlight of the evening was a special musical performance by jazz duet Blueberry Moon, which added a memorable and uplifting atmosphere to the celebrations.

Raffle prizes were generously donated by Wild Sounds and Books, Heritage Wills, The Maid’s Head Hotel, Norfolk Wildlife Trust, Flint Vineyard, Chet Valley Vineyard, McKibbin Management Consultants Ltd and Simple Roasted.

Cllr Sacks said:

I am delighted to have supported The Ted Ellis Trust – Wheatfen Nature Reserve over the past year, and I am incredibly proud of the support shown at my civic reception. This charity plays a vital role in protecting and preserving our natural environment, and I am deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to making the evening such a success."

A huge thank you goes to all the businesses and individuals who supported the event. Their generosity helped make the reception a resounding success, ensuring that vital support continues for this fantastic local charity.

PIC: L-R Cllr Deborah Sacks, Trainee Assistant Warden, Emily George and Chair of Ted Ellis Trust, Sally-Ann Meadows.