Oxenhope’s Sue Ryder hospice has issued a special invitation to people across the district

Manorlands is asking the public to celebrate a special birthday in style – and raise funds at the same time.

It is appealing to supporters to hold a vintage tea party to mark the 60th anniversary of the Sue Ryder charity.

The 50s-themed shindigs could be held amongst workmates, friends or neighbours.

“It’s the perfect event for this time of year – we’re suggesting the 1950s theme to tie in with the anniversary, but maybe people have their own ideas,” said a Manorlands spokesman.

Among those turning back the clock is the hospice’s Riddlesden support group.

Members are staging a vintage tea party at the Willow Tree in Ilkley Road on September 25.

Attractions at the event – from 3.30pm – will include stalls, a raffle, cream teas, period music, an afternoon tea and vintage games.

Tickets – priced £2.50, including tea and a bun or sandwich – are available from the Willow Tree.

Call 01535 640430 or e-mail seaninaiki@hotmail.com for further information, Sue Ryder has produced a guide – downloadable from sueryder.org/sixty – to help people plan their parties.

Support is also available from the Manorlands fundraising team at manorlands.fundraising@sueryder.org or on 01535 640430.

The hospice, which relies on donations and its own fundraising efforts to survive, needs to find £1 million this year just to maintain its invaluable services.

A Million for Manorlands Keighley News appeal, launched in April, smashed through a major milestone earlier this month, when it was revealed almost £300,000 had been collected.

Contact our news team via alistair.shand@keighleynews.co.uk or on 01535 606611 so we can publicise details of your fundraising event.