Four apprentices raise over £400 for Children’s Charity

Isn’t it incredible what can be achieved by just saying ‘yes’ at times? When our second year apprentice, Jacob Trevains learnt about the great work that Children’s Hospice South West do, he agreed to roll up his sleeves and get involved to help support their efforts.

The charity is dedicated to help terminally ill children make the most of their lives, while supporting their families along the way. They explained to Jacob that getting people around the table for a meal is one of the best ways to raise much needed funds, so Jacob decided to put his cookery and service skills to good use by hosting a fundraising lunch.

Pulling together friends on the apprenticeship scheme to help – Jamie Cunningham from Plymouth’s River Cottage Canteen and Deli, Jade Clegg from Rhodes at the Dome and Stephanie Thorpe from The New Inn Cerne Abbas, they organised a two course spring lunch to reflect local and seasonal produce available.

The Cider House, part of National Trust’s prestigious Buckland Abbey provided an idyllic setting for the lunch, which saw 38 guests attending from all over the county.

The proceeds of the lunch, along with a raffle and impromptu bouquet auction raised just over £400 for the charity.

Michael Coxson, volunteer at Children’s Hospice South West said, ‘It is a privilege to be here today as the fantastic work done by these great young people is moving.

‘To be at Buckland Abbey with the National Trust link, bringing in the food of River Cottage to support this worthy charity – it feels like all of our Christmas’ have come at once!’

It goes without saying that we’re all incredibly proud of Jacob, Jamie, Jade and Stephanie for their tremendous effort. The initiative and assertiveness they have shown at this early stage in their careers spells a bright future for each of them.