VOLUNTEER helpers at a club for adults with Downs Syndrome and other special needs are appealing for help after a series of thefts have deprived members of their beloved disco equipment.

The Gateway Club, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, is thriving with almost 100 members now attending. But in the last few months, their base at Windlehurst Community Centre has been broken into on a number of occasions and much of the club's equipment has been stolen.

Teresa Farrimond, who helps with the running of the club, told the Star: "Our members love music and our monthly discos are always packed but a few months ago, someone stole all the equipment.

"Luckily, we do have a helper who has his own disco equipment but it means he has to keep moving it back and forth. Also, when he can't make it and we are without music, the members are really disappointed."

The club meets every Thursday evening from 6 to 9pm and members' ages range from 18 to 84. There are also 21 voluntary helpers who organise activities like beauty therapy, arts and craft lessons, sports and games and regular discos. Later this year, the club is hoping to put on a huge party to mark the 30th anniversary and they are always on the lookout for new members.

Teresa added: "Other things like the dart board and some of the games have also been taken and without some outside help, we can't afford to replace them. We have had a lot of support from the local police and community officers make regular visits to the centre. But we are determined not to let this spoil our anniversary celebrations for the members and we are aiming to give them as good a time as possible."

The club is appealing for donations of equipment from local firms. Anyone who would like to help, whether with make-up and beauty items, games or audio equipment, can contact Teresa on St Helens 736123.

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