A Sandwich supermarket was the venue for the launch of the Wear Blue for Martha campaign to raise £20,000 for a vital part of its sensory garden.

The Martha Trust is marking its 30th birthday throughout 2017 and needs to raise the cash to fix the koi carp pond enjoyed by the young adults with profound disabilities at its home in Hacklinge.

Co-operative staff in Moat Sole raised £506 in one day by dressing in Blue, helped by volunteers such as the Sandwich Carnival Court who packed bags.

Martha Trust fundraising and events officer Kerry Rubins said the Sandwich Co-op was the first place in the district to dress in blue for Martha - and she is appealing for businesses and schools in Sandwich to do the same.

She said: “On behalf of staff and residents of Martha Trust I’d like to say a huge thank you for the ongoing support from Sandwich Co-o, especially manager Paul Harris and deputy manager James Bridger. Not only is it where we launched Wear Blue for Martha, they are also supporting the Sandwich Prom at the Secret Gardens and the Christmas fair at the Guildhall.

“I’d also like to say a massive thanks to the staff who were so supportive.”

There was a tombola and cakes on sale.

Mr Harris also had a cake baked for the charity’s staff from Wingham Bakery with the wording: Martha at 30.

Groups and organisations across the district are coming out in support of Martha Trust as part of its birthday celebrations.

Dover Rotary Club is holding a three-course meal followed by live music from 20 piece orchestra Force 10 Big Band on Thursday, June 1.

Meanwhile a 30-week weight loss challenge Slim4Martha is in full swing with Lou Holness, Kelly Hutchings and Miss Rubins aiming to shed 30lb each.

n See Pages 26-27.