Wilmslow Wells for Africa is a direct action charity which aims to improve life in drought-stricken areas of Africa by providing wells, pumps, dams and water collection equipment.
The charity was started in the early 1980's by Brenda Mottershead, a local teacher who had returned from living for a few years in South Africa and was horrified by the difficulties people had in obtaining clean water - in many parts of Africa the only water available is so polluted that it kills both the humans and wildlife that have to share its source.
Since then, Wilmslow Wells for Africa has raised £665,541 and completed 128 projects in 15 countries, ranging in size from simple hand-dug wells to complex water harvesting and storage facilities serving whole villages.
Helen Battilana, Secretary for Wilmslow Wells, said "We are very proud of the fact that 99% of the money we raise goes directly to African water projects. The Trustees, including a professional water engineer, ensure that the charity's income is directed to where the need is the greatest and contracts are monitored on-site by people with specific experience.
"Our annual Gardens Day is our biggest fund raiser of the year, raising well over £7000 each time in recent years. We always receive lots of compliments about the event, including the refreshments served at St John's Church Rooms and selected gardens"
This year's Wilmslow Wells Garden Day will take place on Saturday 26th June with 22 local gardens taking part. Tickets are £8 for adults and 50p for children, providing access to all 22 gardens, which will be open from 11.00am - 4.30pm. Morning coffee, cake and lunches will be served at St. John’s Church Rooms on Knutsford Road from 10.30am to 2.00pm.
Tickets available from St. John’s Church Rooms and Chelsea Flowers on Chapel Lane. Further information is available on the Wilmslow Wells website.
