Former Chair of Stratford-on-Avon District Council, Councillor Kate Rolfe (Stratford Tiddington), has presented a cheque for £6,985.03 to Eco Work-Shop CIC, the local community interest company she supported during her year in office from May 2025 to May 2026.

Eco Work-Shop CIC provides purposeful work activities and opportunities for adults with learning disabilities and autism, helping individuals develop skills, confidence and social connections within their community.

The funds were raised through a series of successful fundraising initiatives organised during Councillor Rolfe's year as Chair, including a Charity Black Tie Dinner at The White Swan in Stratford-upon-Avon. The event combined excellent food and entertainment, with actors performing comedy sketches inspired by Fawlty Towers, alongside a raffle and auction in support of the charity.

Councillor Rolfe said: "It has been a pleasure to be involved with everyone at Eco Work-Shop throughout my year as Chair. I have seen first-hand the positive impact the organisation has on the lives of adults with learning disabilities and autism, and I am delighted to present this cheque on behalf of everyone who supported our fundraising events.

"I would like to thank all those who attended our events, donated prizes, sponsored activities and contributed so generously. Raising almost £7,000 for such a worthwhile local organisation is a fantastic achievement."
 
Reflecting on her year in office, Councillor Rolfe described it as a privilege to represent Stratford-on-Avon District across a wide range of civic and community events. During her term, she attended choral concerts, theatre productions and local performances, book launches, community celebrations and civic dinners across Warwickshire. Highlights included meeting England goalkeeper and European Championship winner Hannah Hampton, supporting local voluntary groups and charities, and promoting the important work carried out by community organisations throughout the District.

The cheque handover marks the culmination of a busy and rewarding year in office, during which Councillor Rolfe championed local causes and celebrated the achievements of residents, businesses and community groups across Stratford-on-Avon District.

Alannah Bayliss, Service Director at Eco Work-Shop CIC, said: We extend our sincere thanks to Kate for the outstanding funds she has raised for us and for her unwavering support of our events over the last year. Her commitment to promoting our service within the community has been invaluable. While her tenure as Chair has concluded she will continue to be a part of the Work?Shop family."