DISABILITY charity West Berkshire Mencap has announced the appointment of a new chief executive.

Sara Vaughan has been taken the role following a varied career in the voluntary sector with experience across a broad range of charities.

West Berkshire Mencap has helped people with learning disabilities and their families in the area for more than 50 years and provides care services, clubs, plus runs two supported living units.

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She said: "I have been very impressed with what I've seen here since I've started.

"There are excellent services being run which is testament to the work that’s gone on before by staff and trustees.

"Our job now is to grow that and develop it so that we can offer more services and build on all the work done so far."

Her first goal is to move the Growing4All project from its current home in Cottismore to the West Berkshire Mencap site at Enborne Gate.

“We’re looking forward to developing the work and opportunities we can offer to clients while they’re working there,” she said.

Ms Vaughan has worked with people with learning disabilities throughout her working life and has also been a foster carer for more than 10 years.

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Since her recent appointment, she has spent time getting to know the West Berkshire Mencap clients, families and staff and added: "I am incredibly impressed with the people who work for the organisation; they are a great bunch and the amazing patience and care shown when they’re working with clients is beyond anything I’ve seen before.

"I have never seen an organisation care so much and so sensitively and empathetically in the way that they do. It’s astonishing to see."

Chairman of trustees at West Berkshire Mencap, Julian Swift-Hook, added: "I'm delighted to welcome Sara to West Berkshire Mencap.

"Everyone has been truly impressed with her vision and commitment, and the whole team is looking forward to an exciting future for West Berkshire Mencap under Sara's leadership."

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The biggest fundraiser of the year is the annual Race Day which takes place on Friday, February 28, at Newbury Racecourse; tickets are now available for the event which will mark 20 years of the event.

The charity is always looking for volunteers to help and for people to support their fundraising events. The next event is the West Berkshire Mencap carol service that takes place on Wednesday, December 18 at 7pm at St Nicolas Church in Newbury.

For more information on West Berkshire Mencap, click here.