A HEXHAM-BASED charity supporting people with learning disabilities is set to stage a Platinum Jubilee celebration.

Gateway into the Community will host a traditional, British afternoon tea party, bringing together over 100 of the charity’s members and their families.

It follows a generous grant from Newcastle Building Society.

The tea party will involve music, a royal bake-off, sporting activities and face painting to mark the Queen’s 70 year anniversary on the throne.

Organisers hope to encourage people of all ages to join in the festivities.

Gateway into the Community is a support group offering a dedicated day service, individual support and special interest groups for people with learning disabilities. The charity supports more than 200 members.

The £2,000 grant will cover the cost of the event and has been provided through the Newcastle Building Society Community Fund at the Community Foundation.

Julia Ferguson, chief executive at Gateway into the Community, said: “Following a pause to our social activities during the pandemic, our Platinum Jubilee tea party is an opportunity to unite generations of our community that may not ordinarily get the chance to come together for a celebration to mark the Queen’s 70 years of service.

"Through staging our event, we also hope to address the loneliness and social isolation felt throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

“In preparation for the event, we are rallying support from businesses and residents in our local area, with our members and volunteers working hard to create decorations, deliver party invitations, and bake a selection of treats, all of which will help us to put on a memorable event for those who attend.”

Dale Barclay, area manager at Newcastle Building Society, covering the Hexham branch on Beaumont Street, added: “Having spent time with members and volunteers at Gateway into the Community, I know first-hand how excited they are to throw their Platinum Jubilee afternoon tea party.

“Events like this are what help our communities to thrive and, with the support of our community fund grant, the charity can continue to have a transformative impact on the lives of its members and their families.”

The event will be held at Tynedale Sports Club in Hexham on June 1 from 1-4pm.