Superheroes, Pobol y Cwm and Hollyoaks stars walk for Mencap at National Botanic Garden of Wales

ONE could not move for stars of stage and screen at the National Botanic Garden of Wales today as Mencap celebrated 75 years in existence with a ‘Superheroes’ walk.

Donna Edwards of Pobol y Cwm who has been an ambassador for Mencap along with star of Hollyoaks Emily Burnett lent their support to around 70 people who turned out in the autumn rain to take a brisk 5k walk around the gardens.

Keeping them all entertained was the Carmarthen Ukuleles playing appropriately ‘Bring Me Sunshine’. Although the sun did not shine there was plenty of warmth on offer from those who had given or received support from the charity.

Llanelli businessman George Parker was also there to lend his support. Mr. Parker is involved in securing funding along with the St. Elli Lodge of Freemasons to renovate a garden at a residential property for Mencap clients in Queen Victoria Road.

Also lending their support to Mencap Cymru today were the Llanelli Veterans Association. Director of Mencap Cymru Wayne Crocker said that is was fantastic to see so many people attending the event, which he said he would like repeated on an annual basis.

Mencap began with the love and determination of one mother, Judy Fryd. Judy’s daughter, Felicity, had a learning disability.

In 1946, Judy wrote a letter to Nursery World magazine. This was at a time when people thought children with a learning disability could not be taught in schools and were discriminated against under the law (1944 Education Act). Families like Judy’s were left with little support in raising their child.

Determined to make a difference, Judy used her letter to reach out to other struggling parents. Over 1000 parents responded with issues about lack of support, education and stigma for their children who had learning disabilities.

Together they created Mencap, which continues its mission to make the UK the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

To celebrate 75 years of empowering and enabling people with a learning disability, we want to show how small actions can lead to big change, just like Judy Fryd’s letter.

Sign Mencap’s pledge today, so that you can take a stand. Stay in touch with us so you can continue to make a difference.