A GATHERING in the garden helped an Alzheimer s Society in St Albans raise vital funds for their up-and-coming projects. The St Albans and district branch of the Alzheimer s Society threw a garden party at their headquarters in Catherine Street, inviting

A GATHERING in the garden helped an Alzheimer's Society in St Albans raise vital funds for their up-and-coming projects.

The St Albans and district branch of the Alzheimer's Society threw a garden party at their headquarters in Catherine Street, inviting special guests along such as Mayors of St Albans and Harpenden Cllr Chris Oxley and Rosemary Farmer for a day of live music and socialising.

Newly appointed branch manager Erika Aldridge hosted the event and said it was a huge success: "We had many volunteers offering to help out and some even brought their guitar along for entertainment. I look forward to seeing how the money raised will help us expand our services to the district."

Cllr Oxley stressed his support for the Alzheimer's Society and added: "It makes a real difference to the quality of people's lives and the introduction of new services such as carer support groups will mean even more people will benefit from these invaluable support networks."

The Alzheimer's Society branch raised over �500 on the day and Erika said that the proceeds will go towards projects such as introducing a carer support group in Wheathampstead and planning more social events and day trips.