Monmouth based charity Hands Around The World celebrated its 25th anniversary with a lively, open door event at Bridges Centre.

The afternoon kicked off with an address by the town mayor, Councillor Richard Roden, followed by a brief introduction to HATW’s work by its founder David Steiner.

There were then performances which ’lit up the room’ from the Wye Dean Gospel Choir followed by dancing and fancy dress.

Running alongside the entertainment on stage were a café selling tea and homemade cakes and a variety of fair trade and craft stalls.

Later on in the afternoon there was a stirring African drumming performance from Djabot.

And, at the end of the performance, children were invited up to the stage to try their hand on the drums.

The anniversary celebration was rounded off with a raffle draw and the launch of the HATW 250 lottery.

Throughout the event, HATW volunteers, who range in age from 21 to 70+, were on hand to talk to visitors about the community projects the charity is supporting in Zambia and India.

The aim of Hands Around the World is to work with existing partners in the countries concerned, offering support and sharing skills to ensure the sustainablility of projects focused on vulnerable and orphaned children.

While some HATW volunteers are able to travel out to Africa and India to gain hands-on experience of the work, others focus on crucial fund-raising efforts back home.

"We’re so lucky to have such a great group of dedicated and committed volunteers who help make events, such as the one that was enjoyed by so many on Saturday, a success," said HATW operations manager Jane Powell.

"From the cake making, to manning stalls, to coordinating the event - it was all led by volunteers and we are so grateful.

"As well as all of our volunteers, there are many local companies and businesses that have supported our event. There are too many to mention but you all know who you are! To have this local support is what makes events like this work."

Town councillor for Drybridge, Rachel Jupp added: "HATW’s birthday fundraiser celebrations were tremendous. I especially enjoyed the children’s contributions and the African drumming, as well as the smorgasbord of tea and cake.

"There was such a joyful atmosphere throughout. Congratulations to all the volunteers who have made HATW the vibrant and resourceful organisation it is today."

If you’d like more information about the charity and its work, please visit www.hatw.org.uk

To find out how to play the lottery, contact [email protected]