Cowes Sailability Club’s lovable bear mascot joined volunteers at the Wolverton Manor Garden Fair, helping them to recruit new members and raise funds. 

Wolverton
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Horatio the bear was a popular attraction at the Wolverton Manor Garden Fair, where he helped Cowes Sailability Club volunteers to draw attention to the services that the club provides for children and adults with physical disabilities, long term medical conditions and learning difficulties.  During the course of the two day event on 3-4 September, the club succeeded in recruiting several new volunteers and members, in addition to raising over £200.

Located in one of the main marquees, Cowes Sailability Club ran a number of fun games and activities, which proved popular with families visiting the fair.   Visitors could propose names for Horatio’s bear cousins and guess the number and weight of sweets in a jar.  The club also offered a pegboard treasure hunt game, provided through the generous support of John Hamar of Cowes Rotary Club.

“Events like the Wolverton Manor Garden Fair are really important for Cowes Sailability Club as they give us an opportunity to showcase the opportunities that we offer for disabled people living on the Isle of Wight,” says Cowes Sailability Club Commodore Patrick de Peyer.  “We were also able to raise vital new funds, while contributing to the fun atmosphere of the event.”

Horatio is an electronic, animated bear who can nod and shake his head.  He joined Cowes Sailability Club as its mascot last year and is always very popular, particularly with young people who have learning difficulties and other life-limiting disabilities.  “Cowes Sailability Club’s mission is to put smiles on faces, and Horatio certainly helps us to do that!” de Peyer says.

Horatio is always pleased to receive an invitation for a nice day out!  If you are planning a fundraising event and would like Horatio to come along, please get in touch.