Praise for support group that welcomes families living with children who have disabilities

Happy Days Special Needs Community Group held its first monthly get together at the All Saints Church hall on Kenwood Avenue in Leigh in June.

The events welcome families with children who suffer with any disabilities, giving them a chance to have fun and mix with other youngsters.

The gatherings, which are held at the church hall on the last Sunday of every month, also allow parents or guardians to share information.

The group was set up by parents Beverley Parr, Hannah Denton Ellis, Helena Molyneux and Sarah Gregory.

Beverley, 57, and her husband Ian fostered six-year-old Bethany, who has down syndrome, before adopting her.

The group meet on the last Sunday of every month

Beverley with Bethany

Bethany with Beverley and Ian

She said: "People who have been going to the sessions have said it is a fantastic group.

"They say there has not been a support group like this in Leigh before and have had to travel to places like St Helens or Bolton.

"We have had babies from the age of three months up to children aged 11 who have down syndrome, autism or other conditions come to the group."

Beverley, who completed a university course last year, teaches Makaton sign language to the children as well.

From left; Beverley Parr, Hannah Denton Ellis, Helena Molyneux and Sarah Gregory

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The next session will be held on Sunday, August 25 from 2.30pm to 4.30pm with donations accepted on entry.

There will be stalls, children's entertainment, and wax melts.

To book a stall or for more details contact Beverley on 07788 297908.

The group are also organising a vintage tea party and fashion show with entertainment at Leigh Miners Welfare Institute on Friday, November 29.

More information about the event will be announced later this year.