The saying “charity begins at home” usually refers to looking after your family and friends, when in need, before looking after others. Whilst, of course, we do that, we also try to support charities that help others in their hour of need.

Our efforts mainly support Macmillan Cancer Support, and it was to raise funds for this charity that we opened our home for a coffee morning early in October.

A friend, who volunteers at the local hospices’ charity shop, had kindly been on the look out for some small teapots and gathered together a beautiful quirky little collection for me to purchase.

The day before the event had been spent baking, tidying, sorting space and chairs for our guests, putting up banners and balloons and reminding people to pop by for tea, cake and a chat.

Kids dropped at school, tables laid and kettle on, we opened our door to welcome our guests. There was a steady flow of family and friends and the kettle kept boiling, and my new little pots kept being filled. Several of my ex colleagues joined the party. Some hadn’t seen each other for several years and had a great time catching up, and reminiscing.

Long standing friends came along, joining the happy throng and the cakes were devoured. Our dining room and conservatory were filled with chatter and laughter. And the kettle kept boiling with those little pots being refilled. The weather was dry and those with little children were able to enjoy the garden too.

We held a raffle to boost the coffers. My lovely hairdresser Kate (Hair Fairy) gave me some vouchers as prizes. My daughters friend, who runs Caroline’s Canine Cabin a dog grooming business also donated a voucher. There were donation boxes on the table, so everyone could donate according to their own budget.

The fun and banter continued from 10am till the final guests left at 2pm. The raffle had been drawn and the result of the guess the length of the apple strudel competition had been announced. With the kettle having one final boil, we took a pot of tea ourselves, whilst counting the pennies our kind friends and family had donated.

The grand total of £238 exceeded our expectations. Although in the scheme of things it is a drop in the vast ocean of funds the charity needs, we were very pleased with the result and we and our guests had a fabulous day.

Thank you to everyone who came, to Elaine who sourced the tea pots, to Kate and Caz for the voucher donations and to those who were unable to attend but still donated.

We look forward to extracting more pennies from you at the next outing of the tea pots 😂