A LOCAL group that supports disadvantaged young people is celebrating after receiving a �500 donation.

The Saxmundham-based Pastel Community Interest Company (CIC) has been given the donation by the town’s Tesco store on Church Place.

The money will be used to help the project continue its work improving the learning outcomes of school and college students with learning disabilities – preparing them for an active life in their community.

Annette Raymond, Tesco’s community champion, visited one of Pastel CIC’s transition training workshops to learn more about the group and meet the young adults benefiting from the services provided.

She presented staff and children with a cheque for �500 during the visit.

She said: “It is a pleasure that Tesco is able to support Pastel CIC with this donation.

“The majority of our staff and customers are from Saxmundham, so we were keen to provide a donation to this organisation as it will have a direct impact on the local community.”

Pastel CIC works towards making a significant difference to disadvantaged individuals, groups and communities, opening up opportunities for personal and social development and helping people to fulfil their potential and have their achievements recognised and celebrated.

Volunteer director Don Tricker said: “This donation has come as a very welcome surprise.

“The team is now involved in discussions to agree how it can be best used within the autumn programme, which includes working on personal action plans and life skills training.”

The donation to Pastel CIC is part of a series of donations made to local community organisations since the store opened in May.

It has also supported ClubSax and Saxmundham and Villages Volunteers for Youth (SAAVY).