72-year-old Worthing charity trustee takes on week of challenges, including dance routine

As a trustee and avid supporter, Chris was well aware it had lost all of its income from fundraising, due to the new coronavirus, amounting to approximately £2,000 a month.

Her friend, Worthing Rotary Club president Marlene Butler, challenged her to walk 5km for five days and then dance to music from Freddie Mercury and Queen for 30 minutes.

Chris, 72, described the challenge as ‘a piece of cake’ and emailed everyone she knew, saying she was ‘old bird on the scrounge’ to help raise much-needed funds for Superstar Arts at this difficult time.

From May 14 to 18, Chris walked on the downs, averaging 6km a day, climbed 30 floors, listened to and watched the birds, and ended with a non-stop dance routine at West Worthing Baptist Church.

Chris said: “This was a mad, brief effort for the wonderful Superstar Arts.”

All her efforts paid off, with more than £2,500 raised so far.

Superstar Arts provides creative projects for people from across the area and during lockdown, the charity been delivering activity packs. It has also kept in touch with participants, families and friends through a WhatsApp group and Facetime.

Creative manager Jo Telling, who founded the charity with Jo Sullivan, said: “Lockdown has been a challenging time for everyone, especially those with learning disabilities, their families and carers.

“We are delighted to have such fantastic supporters in Chris and Marlene, who has supported Chris throughout this challenge, and grateful for all their hard work that will help keep the service going through this difficult time.”

Visit localgiving.org/charity/superstararts to make a donation.

Superstar Arts has also just launched a new online shop, offering a range of cards, notebooks, tea towels and tote bags in a choice of four designs. These high-quality, screen-printed products have been created by the Superstar artists.

Visit www.superstararts.com/shop to order.

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