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Society

Local couple celebrate 25 years of raising money for good causes

On Saturday, July 20th, over 100 people, including the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Thatcham, attended a charity garden party hosted by Lin and Pete Congerton at their home. This event marked the 25th year of their fundraising efforts for local charities, during which they have raised more than £50,000

Published: 22 July 2024

Pete and Lin Congerton with Mayor Cllr Suzanne Adamantos

This year, the money raised, currently totalling £2,500, will support two local causes. One beneficiary is the Thatcham Cancer Support Group, which meets most Thursdays in the Parish Hall. This cause is particularly meaningful to the Congertons, as they and their family members have been affected by cancer. Lin commented, “The group lets you be yourself, and activities like gardening at the Nature Discovery Centre help you forget your worries for a few hours.”

The other beneficiary is the Thatcham Jubilee Sensory Garden, located outside the Thatcham Town Council office and maintained by volunteers. Pete regularly participates in community events at the garden, run by Sally, and has learned a great deal about plants and creating bug hotels. The garden offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Lin and Pete Congerton, along with their family, are passionate about helping others and created a spectacular day for all. The event featured an enormous homemade buffet that filled the dining room and kitchen, a variety of drinks, a “name the teddy” game, the largest raffle ever, and an auction. Generous donations for the event came from Cook and Butcher (a huge meat raffle), West Berks Van Hire, Tesco (Bournemouth), Heidi Parker Hair, Stacey Day Hair, Coco Beauty, Thatcham Garden Centre, La Luna, Bella Luna, and the Woodpecker. Their daughter, Kristina Congerton, made two beautifully decorated cakes that raised over £180 in the auction, and their granddaughter, Millie, raised over £140 with the lucky dip.

Peter shared, “We wanted to celebrate living 40 years in this house and fundraising for 25 years. Due to failing health, this may be our last year hosting on such a grand scale. We wanted to make this day special and memorable for everyone.”

Councillor Mark Lillycrop added, “I think everyone who attended will agree it was a special day. Well done, Lin and Pete!”

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