Tunbridge Wells charity voucher book soon to be on sale

By [lmoran]

SOME of the best loved businesses in Tunbridge Wells have come together to try to raise more than £50,000 for local schools, charities and societies.

One hundred firms have each contributed a promotional offer to The Spotlight Book – ranging from money off meals to discounts on clothes, jewellery and leisure activities.

The £10 book of vouchers will be sold by charities, schools and clubs across the area with half of the money raised going directly back to the sellers' fundraising projects.

Mayor of Tunbridge Wells Cllr Mike Rusbridge said: "The Spotlight Book gives us all a chance to make our money go a bit further in 2009.

"Spending just £10 on this book buys us huge potential savings on purchases most of us make during the year and most of us will find the book pays for itself when we use our first voucher.

"By using the vouchers inside we support local businesses and help keep our streets alive with shoppers, something that is more vital in today's climate than it has ever been.

"Perhaps more exciting than all this, is that while saving money and supporting local businesses, we have also helped a local good cause with £5 of the £10 price going straight to them. As they say, everyone wins."

The project is the brainchild of 28-year-old Jennie Maslin, who wanted to help residents beat the credit crunch, boost local businesses and raise funds for worthwhile causes.

The former Tunbridge Wells Girls' Grammar School pupil said: "With more and more strain on people's pockets this hopefully offers a great way for them to continue to enjoy shopping, meals out and loads of other fun activities at a reduced rate

"This is completely risk-free for the sellers and will raise lots of money for good causes in the community.

"Parents at all participating schools will get a two-for-one bowling session voucher for Bowlplex free when the flyers go home next week."

Some of the 100 discounts on offer, which last for the whole of 2009, include two-for-one at Pizza Express in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge, 25 per cent off meals at Zapatas in Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks and 15 per cent off at Padani Jewellers.

Copies of the book will be on sale from the Mind charity shops on Grosvenor Road and High Street from December.

If you are a school, charity or society looking to sell The Spotlight Book to raise funds, contact Jennie Maslin on jennie@ thespotlight book.com before Wednesday.

For a full list of the businesses participating and to find out how to get involved visit www.thespotlightbook. com