The early years community met at Treetops Soft Play in Ely for an annual fundraiser for two children’s charities.  

Over 50 children and their supporting adults attended the event which was in aid of Children In Need and Child Bereavement UK.  

Childminder Sue Smith puts on the get-together which also included a dancing session with Lane Academy and story time.  

She said: “My heartfelt thanks as always go to Adam of Treetops who opens his doors every year without question, donating so generously to our causes.   

“I could not do any of this without the support of our local community, the shops, business owners and those sole traders, many of whom I have known for over a decade and who always so generously support me without question.   

“The donations of raffle prizes are always of the highest standard and are so gratefully received.” 

Over 20 businesses in the Ely area contributed towards raffle prizes. (Image: Sue Smith)

Sue, who runs Sweet Peas Childcare, added: “My thanks must also go to all those attending our fundraiser, bringing their children and donating to the worthy causes; your support every year and participation is amazing.” 

The event was held last Thursday (November 13). Over 20 businesses in the Ely area donated prizes for the raffle.  

Over 50 children and their supporting adults went along to the fundraising event at Tree Tops Soft Play. (Image: Sue Smith) Sue is also known for being Ely’s biggest Take That superfan, or a “Thatter”, and runs online charity raffles of the boy band’s memorabilia. 

Her fundraising efforts so far this year have raised over £1,100 for the causes.  

The online raffles are still taking place on her Facebook page called "Sue’s Children in Need/CBUK 2024" at https://shorturl.at/4lXMP      

Organiser Sue Smith thanked everyone for taking part. (Image: Sue Smith) Sue is well-known in the community for passionately championing early years education and the childminding network.     

This autumn, she was named “Most Amazing Professional” at the 2024 Ely Heroes Awards.  

Sweet Peas Childcare was also awarded “Outstanding” following an Ofsted inspection this summer.

Sue Smith (left) with some of those who went along to the event on November 13. (Image: Sue Smith) Organiser Sue Smith (left) with Adam Pickup, the owner of Treetops Soft Play. (Image: Sue Smith)