A toy collection by customers of the Orchid Group's ‘Dragons' and ‘Carvery' pubs has brought a smile to the faces of Thai children orphaned by the 2004 Tsunami, as well as to local kids whose lives have been affected by domestic violence.
The 50 participating pubs collected toys donated by locals between January and March of this year. Half the toys collected have been given to the KidsOut charity, which runs a Toy Box Scheme across the UK for children escaping domestic violence.
The rest of the toys were taken directly to the Baan Tharn Namchai Orphanage in Khao Lak, Thailand by five pub managers. Richard Jennings, from the Olton Tavern (Solihull), Angie Barclay, from the Ardleigh & Dragon (Hornchurch), Barry Smith (area manager) and Robbie and Annette Heaton from the Fiveways (Ormskirk) timed their visit so the children will have the toys for Thai New Year - a three-day celebration that runs from 13 to 15.
The orphanage is in an area that was among the worst affected by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. With so many children left without families by the disaster, the orphanage plays a vital role in a community that is still suffering the physical as well as psychological effects of the devastation.
Angie Barclay (pictured), manager of the Ardleigh & Dragon in Hornchurch, who went on the trip said: "The toy collection has enabled us to recognise the two elements that combine at the pub. To recognise our links with Thailand, it seemed right to remember the children affected by the Tsunami disaster on its fifth anniversary. Since we're a great local pub, it was just as important to help kids in this area."
"It was an amazing experience to meet the kids and get involved in their daily lives. There is a real feeling of love at Baan Tharn and the children were a delight to spend time with."
The toy collection is part of a project by the pubs to provide ongoing support for the orphanage. So far, £15,000 has been raised to fund a new playground for the children at Baan Tharn.
