A monthly prize draw has been launched by a charity for those with learning disabilities to raise money for its lively social club.

The Sunnybank Trust, based in St Barnabas Church, Temple Road, Epsom, launched its 100 Club Draw on Shrove Tuesday, with the club’s members tossing 100 pancakes to mark the occasion.

The first draw will take place on April 17 with prizes of up to £225 each month.

The cost of participating in the draw for one year will enable enough money to be raised to fund the charity’s social club nights with live music and craft materials.

Sunnybank supporter Joanna Matthews said: "It is vital for the charity to increase its monthly guaranteed income in order to make our services more sustainable. 

"The Sunnybank 100 Club means we can do this and give something back to our supporters through the prize money each month.

"Activities such as live music and art are so important.  They encourage individual expression and self esteem. 

"For many of our club members with more complex needs, music offers a means to connect with the outside world. 

"The challenges of daily life for those with profound and multiple learning disabilities can be huge.  Music and art is a unique way to counteract stress and isolation."

Tom Rhind-Tutt MBE, the charity’s founder, added: "With the monthly Sunnybank 100 Club Draw everyone gains something - whether it is prize money, extra support for the Sunnybank services or simply knowing that you have done something to support your local community.

"We are very excited at this new initiative and hope the community gets behind the scheme."

The Epsom Guardian launched the Shine On appeal last May to help the charity ensure it can keep on running its weekly social club, Kites; a friendship scheme and independent advocacy service, after a collapse in support from charitable trusts affected by the financial downturn.

For details of how to join the 100 Club click here.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

There are a number of ways you can support our Shine On Appeal:

1. Visit the charity's Justgiving page on The Sunnybank Trust's website (www.sunnybanktrust.org) and click on 'donate'.

2. Text £1, £2, £3, £4, £5 or £10 to The Sunnybank Trust by texting TSBT16 followed by the amount to 70070.

3. Post cheques and postal orders payable to "The Sunnybank Trust" to: The Sunnybank Trust, St. Barnabas Church, Temple Road, Epsom, Surrey, KT19 8HA.

4. Volunteer to help fundraise or run an event, or donate gifts, services or vouchers for raffles: call the fundraising team on 01372 749871 or email enquiries@sunnybanktrust.org.