STAFF at The Botanist Chester are launching a series of events and fundraising activities for local children’s charity Children Today during the official UK Charity Week.

The Christmas campaign starts on Thursday, December 5, when staff from The Botanist will be crafting botanical concoctions at its cocktail stall in Debenhams, located on the main floor, with 50 per cent of the funds being donated to the charity.

Doug McCormick, restaurant manager at The Botanist Chester, said: “We wanted to spread some festive cheer this year and support an amazing local cause. This incredible charity provides disabled children with grants for much-needed adapted equipment to enable them to have the best quality of life as possible. We’re very proud to be supporting Children Today throughout December, through some amazing charity events and optional £1 bill donations.”

On Sunday, December 8, the final day of UK Charity Week, the venue is inviting musical talent to its Open Mic Night, which is in aid of Children Today. There will be a raffle with prizes up for grabs, from a variety of local businesses.

The Christmas charity campaign concludes with The Botanist’s Industry Cocktail Competition and Party on Sunday, January 5. It’s £10 to enter the competition with charity cocktails and drinks specials available on the night. All the funds raised will be donated to Children Today.

“We’d love to raise our target of £1,000 and hope our guests, friends of The Botanist, new and old, and fellow industry experts get on board to help us raise as much as possible for this wonderful cause. £1,000 could help fund an adapted trike or adapted buggy, which could be truly life changing for family. What better present could we possibly give this Christmas than the gift of being able to spend time together as a family,” added Mr McCormick.

Emma Prescott, head of communications at Children Today, said: “We’re delighted that The Botanist has chosen to support Children Today with such an impressive calendar of events. As a charity we rely solely on donations from individuals and businesses to be able to continue to support children and families affected by disability, so events like these are crucial for us and the families who need us. Thanks to everyone involved for their tremendous efforts!”

To learn more about any of these events pop in and speak to a member of staff, call 01244 408100 or visit https://thebotanist.uk.com/locations/chester.

For more information about Children Today or to make a donation visit www.childrentoday.org.uk.