Published: Thursday, 30th July, 2009 4:00am

Looking to the future at Yeldall

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A CHRISTIAN centre which helps men fight drug and alcohol addiction is continuing to look to the future.

Yeldall Manor in Hare Hatch is now using social networking websites Facebook and Twitter to keep in touch with former residents, staff, families and supporters.

But new innovations have not seen it lose its regular celebration services and open days and its last one on July 11 attracted more than 500 people.

Fundraising manager Sue Hedger said: "It was great to welcome so many people to enjoy the day with us.

"People came from all over the country with some making the journey every year whilst many were here for the first time.

"I hope that, amidst all the fun activities, they enjoyed the peace of our grounds and saw something of God at work here transforming men's lives."

Attractions included face-painting, skittles, a hog roast and cream tea and there was also the opportunity to buy books, cakes and plants or visit Chissock Woodcraft, the on-site independent furniture restoration business which trains and employs some of Yeldall's ex-residents.

The afternoon was followed by an evening celebration services in a marquee with worship, life stories from four ex-residents now studying or working and an update on the year by programme manager Noel Fawcett, who marked 20 years' employment at Yeldall.

Website www.yeldall.org.uk to help the charity or search for "Yeldall" on Facebook and Twitter.

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