MEMBERS of disability group Purple Patch raised £1,800 for charity.

The group, based at Bangor Street Community Centre, Blackburn, presented a cheque to Khalil Benkhalil of international charity Penny Appeal, which aids people in more than 30 crisis-hit countries.

Khalil Benkhalil of Penny Appeal accepted the cheque on behalf of the charity.

Rafik Jassat of Purple Patch said, “The group raised all the money themselves which was really inspiring.

“They had things which they auctioned. They also had a full house at the ‘Purple Patch Does Talent’ show which proved to be really successful as they sold all the tickets themselves.”

The cheque presentation was hosted by Ibrahim Patel, who has Down syndrome. He was joined by group members Tasneem Patel, Talha Patel, Heena Ellahi and Fraaz Ahmed.

Purple Patch works with 40 families and has been based at the centre for five years. Mr Jassat added: “We would like to thank all our staff and volunteers. They give up so much of their time and they champion the rights of disabled people.

“They share our philosophy that our members have a meaningful and active role to play in our society.”

“We really want to challenge the way the wider community perceive disabled people.

“It is about empowering people and changing perceptions.”

Speaking at the presentation Khalil said, “I would like to thank everyone on behalf of Penny Appeal. This was a fantastic effort by everyone.”