THE district's Mencap group are hosting a series of unique fundraising events to create a much-needed sensory room at its offices.

Braintree District Mencap are hoping to raise £15,000 over the course of the year to pay for the the new facility.

The sensory room would be used to strengthen relationships between families and the group would use the space with children during their playscheme.

Rachael Luckin, general manager of Braintree District Mencap, said: "Sensory rooms are such amazing spaces and it would be an ideal additional to our children's services.

"They are a great calming space for children that are showcasing challenging behaviours but they are also useful for the most passive people.

"It would be brilliant for us to have such a space."

First on the list on many fundraisers is a 24 hour danceathon that staff, members and volunteers will be taking part in on February 22.

The fun begins at 8pm at the group's weekly bridge club at Charles Leek House, Coggeshall Road, and will finish the next day.

Rachael said: "This idea came from our adult members.

"They love dancing at events throughout the year and they decided they wanted to do a danceathon as the first fundraiser.

"It is a huge undertaking for them because as well as having learning difficulties some have physical disabilities too."

Members will be taking part in the event in shifts and will be joined by family members and wellwishers throughout.

Rachael said: "I am doing the night shift with one of my colleagues.

"I think my feet are going to ache a lot afterwards and of course my knees."

Mencap are planning to hold various events throughout the year and want community minded individuals or groups to match fund the initiatives or put on their own events to raise money for the charity.

Visit: www.braintreemencap.org.uk.