Fool’s gold in aid of Branksome Sparkle appeal (From Bournemouth Echo)

Fool’s gold in aid of Branksome Sparkle appeal

10:30am Thursday 18th March 2010 in

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AN appeal to raise £5 million for much-needed new facilities for disabled children will be boosted by an April Fool’s Day charity collection in Westbourne.

Since opening 21 years ago Chez Fred in Westbourne has served up its famous fish and chips to sporting stars, celebrities and even a Prime Minister.

Now regular customers are being rewarded for their loyalty during an event to boost the coffers of the Daily Echo backed Sparkle Appeal.

On Thursday, April 1 takeaway meals will be sold for just £1 each; less than they cost when the Seamoor Road shop opened in 1989.

Throughout the day a charity collection will be held to raise funds for a new hydrotherapy pool and therapy centre at the Victoria Education Centre in Branksome.

Fred Capel, owner of Chez Fred, said: “Since I first visited the Victoria Centre I have been amazed by the incredible work being carried out there and impressed by the dedication and commitment of staff.

“While celebrating a terrific milestone and saying thank-you to our customers it’s also a real pleasure to be giving something back to the local community.”

Over the years Chez Fred’s star-studded customer list has included entertainer Jimmy Tarbuck, snooker ace Steve Davis and former Prime Minister John Major.

Fred, 46, said: “Obviously Mr Major couldn’t come to us, because of the security risk, so we took fish and chips to him at the hotel where he was staying during a Tory party conference.”

Sue Stratis at the Victoria Centre said: “Fred has been a fantastic friend to us for many years.”