Christmas fayre sees launch of new sensory room

Manager Rachel Martini said: “What could make Christmas more magical than an encounter with Father Christmas himself?

“Even the mayor, councillor Michael Donin, met with Santa.”

A Christmas raffle was held to raise much-needed funds and there was a variety of different stalls, with lots of unique gift items available for purchase, as well as refreshments.

The Christmas fayre also marked the unveiling of the DIY SOS style project to refurbish the sunflower and sensory rooms, used for children with special complex needs.

Rachel added: “This project, managed by Robert Luff Estate Agents, generated a great deal of support.”

Robert Luff explained he had heard the nursery needed help to fund the refurbishment and equipping of three large rooms, so he and his team stepped in.

The 32-year-old director from Worthing enlisted the help of local trades and businesses.

Robert and his team started work clearing the building, ripping up old flooring, replacing old electrics and blinds, and decorating throughout.

“I must admit at quite a few points I wondered if we had bitten off more than we could chew,” Robert laughed.

“But the team were determined to get everything finished in time for the grand opening and children’s party on December 4.

“With the hours ticking by, all of the helpers worked around the clock and, with just hours to spare, finished.

“It was the culmination of months of planning and weeks of hard work but they did it.”

Dorothy Calderwood, executive officer at Kamelia Kids, said “It’s been an amazing journey and the community spirit has been amazing.

“All of Rob’s team did a wonderful job and have helped us continue the work we have been doing with children for over 30 years. And most importantly, the children loved it.”

The nursery cares for up to 75 children of all abilities up to the age of eight and has a large catchment area, spanning from Shoreham to Arundel.

Kamelia Kids is the only not-for-profit nursery in this part of West Sussex that supports a number of pre-school children with a wide range of complex needs – long term medical and life limiting conditions – and those with social, educational and additional needs.

As a charity organisation Kamelia Kids is managed by a voluntary board of trustees.

Its charitable status influences the nursery’s values and holistic approach. Every penny generated by donations and fundraising is spent on caring for the children, so they feel valued and they are given the support needed to reach their full potential.

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