Detectives descend on the New Forest

Amateur sleuths discovered whodunit in a murder mystery event to raise funds for learning disability charity Minstead Trust.

Guests arrived at the atmospheric Minstead Lodge in the New Forest on 17 September dressed in Victorian style clothing ready to use their detective skills to uncover the mysterious goings-on at this sell-out event.

During the evening, guests were treated to a two-course meal whilst actors from Organise Events played out the scene and provided clues for the teams to piece together the mystery.

Generous sponsors donated raffle prizes which included a hamper of wine, a £100 decorating voucher from Brewers and an interior design coffee table book by Kit Kemp.

Lesley Brooks, Fundraising Co-ordinator at Minstead Trust, said: ’The murder mystery dining event in aid of Minstead Trust is a really popular evening and it was lovely to welcome familiar faces and new ones to our first indoors in-person event in such a long time. Events like these help raise important funds supporting our work, helping people with learning disabilities to thrive and live more independent lives.

As a local charity, we want to inspire people to learn more about the great things that people with learning disabilities are achieving, and how they, as new supporters of our charity can be part of the Minstead Trust’s community of support.’

Overall £1,385 was raised which will go towards helping Minstead Trust continue to offer training and support to improve the lives of people with learning disabilities.

As well as direct support for people with learning disabilities, the Trust runs social enterprises Furzey Gardens, Hanger Farm Arts Centre and Minstead Lodge events venue. All of these social enterprises offer work experience for people with learning disabilities.

The next murder mystery event will take place in 2022 with details being posted on Minstead Trust’s website later this year.

If you would like to find out more about Minstead Trust or how you can get involved with the charity or any of the events, please visit www.minsteadtrust.org.uk