Riverhills 'Christmas Sparty' supports RSPCA and Thomas Wolsey Ormiston Academy

Why it matters: The money raised will support the RSPCA's local animal welfare work and Thomas Wolsey Ormiston Academy's services for children with disabilities in Defoe Road.

The details: Guests enjoyed festive shopping at stalls from local businesses, food platters and a charity raffle at the 'Christmas Sparty' event. Spa manager Debbie Lawes and colleague Olivia Burrell presented cheques to both charities.

What they're saying: "It was a pleasure to welcome so many members and guests to this year's Christmas Market," said spa manager Debbie Lawes. "The sense of community throughout the day was truly special, and it was heart-warming to see people enjoying the festivities while supporting local businesses and worthwhile causes."

The bigger picture: The fundraiser concluded a year of community activity for Riverhills, which included:

• Creating a members mural for the new spa
• Partnering with Suffolk New College to train three beauty therapists who secured their first roles at Riverhills
• Welcoming back firefighters who tackled the 2023 fire to experience the transformed spa before it reopened

The bottom line: The event raised money for local causes while bringing the community together for festive celebration, demonstrating how local businesses can support charitable work alongside their commercial operations.