RECEIVING a donation for £750 was on the agenda for a Swindon group which helps people with learning disabilities, at its AGM.

The Open Door Centre, in Gorse Hill, provides specialist facilities for users but members were thrilled to receive £750 towards a new dishwasher for the venue at the meeting, on Thursday, October 23.

Deputy manager Pat Winnings, said the donation was made by Linda Stacey, whose late husband used to work with people with learning difficulties.

“We have been fundraising for a new dishwasher for a while, as it costs about £2,500,” she said.

“And when Linda said she could give us that much money, we were all in tears and hugging.

“What a lovely lady, it was such a lovely gesture.”

And she said the group had used the meeting as a chance to discuss plans to mark the 30th anniversary of the Open Door Centre, next year.

The club, which has 140 users on its books, is unsure whether it will continue to receive any funding from Swindon Borough Council next year and is aiming to increase its own fundraising efforts.

“We’re all trying to be positive,” Pat added. “We will be trying to do more fundraising next year and we are keen to hear from anyone who wants to help.”

Anyone interested in raising money for the centre should call 01793 512357.