An all-inclusive sing and sign choir based at the rugby club in Honiton are looking forward to a Christmas celebration, after what has been a 'difficult year' for members.

Makaton Sing and Sign Choir have asked if any local businesses are able to provide prizes for a raffle, which will be held via live video stream on Saturday 5 December.

Sharon and Naomi Parnell said: "We were hoping that local businesses might be willing to supply us with a suitable prize for our raffle. Anything you could donate to us would be much appreciated.

"We have already had support from Parnell Coaches who have kindly donated a £50 cash prize."

On the Friday (4 Dec) before the raffle, a Christmas party and Fundraising Event will take place in a private Zoom session for choir members.

They continued: "This will involve Santa Claus visiting us to join our Zoom choir party, Elf on the shelf joining, as well as the Snow Queen and Santa's Little Helper.

"It will be an evening of fun for the children and their families after a difficult year."

Makaton Sing and Sign is open to all ages and choir members are invited to join in sessions held monthly.

"In 2019 we performed at Exmouth Festival, Tesco's store in Honiton, Honiton Charter Day and a residential home in Exmouth," they added.

"Unfortunately due to Covid-19 we haven't been able to meet since March 2020, however we kept the group together by making signing videos and joining everyone together; we even made ITV news.

"We now run our choir via Zoom each month for an hour.

"Money raised at the event will be used towards our Christmas party, our special characters and equipment needed for choir, such as music stands and cheerleader pom-poms - and then a huge celebration party when it is safe to meet again."

If you can offer any help or support, please contact Sharon and Naomi on email: [email protected].

For more information on the Makaton Sing and Sign Choir click here for the website.