Sanctuary in Chichester’s (SiC’s) support for asylum seekers and refugees has been boosted by a whopping £2,500 from brewer Hall & Woodhouse’s Community Chest awards.

SiC was one of 24 Sussex organisations, whittled down from 208 applications, to receive an award at a 21 September ceremony at Hall & Woodhouse’s Worlds End pub in Patching. The other recipients came from across Sussex and ranged from Long Furlong Riding for the Disabled to Crawley Museum. (Pictured receiving the award is Rebecca Zeman, SiC management committee member, with Gary Shipton, Chichester Observer editor-in-chief, one of the judges.)

SiC received the highest sum given, with other awards ranging from £300 upwards. Award applications were judged on the basis of need, organisations’ own efforts and the difference a contribution could make. In announcing SIC’s award Hall & Woodhouse chairman Mark Woodhouse praised the organisation’s “marvellous work”.

The award brings the amount raised by SiC since we launched our fundraising campaign in November 2017 to £22,600 – more than halfway towards our £40,000 target.

• Our friendly fundraising committee is looking for new members. Please contact Rebecca on rebecca.dowman@cantab.net if you are interested.