Clarence Pier makes major donation to Cash for Kids South Coast in tribute to Portsmouth's children
Clarence Pier, one of Portsmouth's most beloved landmarks and recently celebrating its 80th anniversary, has made a generous donation to Cash for Kids South Coast. The donation was inspired after seeing the charity's Portsmouth100 campaign in The News, which sought 100 Portsmouth businesses, schools and community groups to raise £1,000 each for vulnerable children.
The decision to donate was sparked in part by Patricia Shufflebottom, daughter of the founder Billy Manning and still a Clarence Pier director today. Patricia was recently recognised with an Outstanding Contribution to Business award at the Portsmouth 100 Business Awards. The recognition prompted reflection on her years in the city and when she came across the Cash for Kids South Coast Portsmouth100 fundraising appeal, felt compelled to act.
“Anything to do with kids is close to our hearts,” said West Manning from Clarence Pier. “We're a close family with lots of children in our lives, and we've always tried to do our bit, from days out to donations, children have always been our focus.
“No one wants to see kids struggling and it strikes a different chord when you do. We know that families in Portsmouth are finding things hard right now, so it felt like the right thing to be able to give back to the people of Portsmouth.”
The pier's connection to the city's families runs deep. Generations of local children have visited the pier, and keeping the donation within the city was a priority for the team.
“This was a really generous donation from West and his family, and one that we are incredibly grateful for,” said Lisa Congdon, Cash for Kids South Coast manager. “The money donated will be used to help local families and for such a Portsmouth icon to support our cause really means a lot.”
Cash for Kids South Coast supports disadvantaged and vulnerable children across the region, working with schools, community groups and local organisations to direct funds where they are needed most.
If other Portsmouth organisations want to get involved, further details can be found here: https://www.cashforkidsgive.co.uk/campaign/100k-for-100-years/