A WELSH actress paid a visit to a lunch club for disabled children in Pontypool this weekend to learn about how Comic Relief funding has helped the group.

Ahead of this year’s Red Nose Day, Fresh Meat actress Kimberley Nixon paid a visit to a lunch club for disabled children in Pontypool to see the difference Comic Relief funding is making in Wales.

TOGS Disabled Children’s Centre supports children and young people aged five to 21 with physical, sensory or learning disabilities. It runs a range of activities to give children the opportunity to socialise and try new experiences.

And the centre also uses Comic Relief funding to run a weekend lunch club at local restaurants twice a month.

The lunch clubs help the children develop their independence and socialise with their friends, as well as giving parents and families a few hours’ respite.

Ms Nixon visited TOGS’ recent lunch club at the Teazer restaurant in New Inn to see how the Comic Relief funding was making an impact.

The actress said: “It’s clear to see how much the children enjoy the lunch club and spending time with their friends. It also gives their parents a few hours to relax knowing they are having fun and being looked after.

“It’s so important to get involved with this year’s Red Nose Day to help projects like TOGS keep changing lives here in Wales. Make your laugh matter and raise as much as you can.”

TOGS youth worker, Andrew Herbert said: “TOGS was set up to give disabled children opportunities to try new things and have fun together in a safe and happy environment. The lunch clubs are a perfect example.

“Since we started the lunch clubs eight months ago the children have enjoyed everything from three-course dinners to afternoon teas.

“We’re so grateful to Comic Relief for helping us give the children this time to develop their confidence and most importantly have some fun.”

Maria Huish-Blount’s daughter Maddison, 15, attends TOGS regularly.

Ms Huish-Blount, from Torfaen, said: “It can be very difficult for a child with restrictions or difficulties of any sort to socialise. The risks are huge, as Maddison is so vulnerable.

“It’s fantastic for her to come out with a group of people and be accepted for who she is. She’s really happy here.”

Comic Relief is now calling for people to help them fundraise in Wales

This year’s Red Nose Day will take place on March 24.

Are you already making plans for fundraising this Red Nose Day?

Get in touch with us and let us know what you’re planning on doing.

Email newsdesk@southwalesargus.co.uk or call 01633 777 226.