NSPCC Chipstead

The NSPCC was first introduced in Chipstead in the 1950’s and has grown from small beginnings into a highly successful fund-raising concern.  The Charity began with holding coffee mornings and house-to-house collections. There were some talented members of the Committee who were good with a needle and before long they held Bring and Buy coffee mornings.  This led to greater things with the famous Christmas Bazaars that raised a lot of money.  The fundraisers worked very hard and were always on the look out for lovely materials 'going cheap' or being ‘given away’ so that they could make cushions and other handcrafted items. On one occasion a committee member was up until 3.30 am on the morning of the Bazaar stuffing the last of her cushions - they all sold! 
With new members joining the Committee there were even more events being organised including fashion shows, dinner dances, cookery & flower arranging demonstrations and Easter Food Fairs.  The Committee also produced a very popular cookbook still being used today. 
Times have changed and we now hold two Bridge Drives a year in March and November which are extremely popular.  The guests meet for coffee and homemade biscuits before the start of play.  Later a delicious two-course lunch is served with a glass of wine and then the play continues.  With a raffle and varied stalls the amount raised is usually around £1,600. 
We hold a Summer Luncheon in a local garden, this event has always been well supported and the weather has usually been very kind to us.
Every December, for more years than we can say, we join the Coulsdon Rotary Club Christmas Float. A ‘volunteer’ Father Christmas joins the many youngsters who come and help. They enjoy knocking on doors and inviting everyone to come out and see Father Christmas.  It is lovely to see the excitement on the younger children’s faces.
The NSPCC is a worthwhile charity and we, as a local committee, enjoy working towards their fundraising. 
We are always looking for new members and ideas for events. If you feel that you would like to help or be involved in any way please ring our Chairman, Wendy Vaughan - telephone no. 01737 553348.