TWO WOMEN who run a counselling and therapy centre have celebrated the first anniversary of their practice by doing good work for a local women’s refuge.

Sheetal Champaneri, 42, from Darlington and business partner, Sarah Gordon, who run the not-for-profit Nurture Therapy Clinic in the town's Duke Street have donated toys, clothes, books and games to the town’s Women’s Refuge Centre.

Mrs Champaneri, who was born in Uganda and whose family fled the country for the UK in the 1970s, said: “We wanted to do more than offer counselling services. We wanted these women to have something to give to their children at Christmas.”

The caring team estimate that between 40 and 50 children will benefit from their efforts.

Mrs Champaneri added: “It’s important not to forget women in these safe houses who are going through such a traumatic time. We want to give them a smile and to know that someone is thinking about them.

“These are women who have had to flee their homes due to domestic abuse and are now in safe houses.

“We thought that, rather than celebrate our anniversary by having a meal and champagne, we [should] put that money to help these people.”

Mrs Champaneri, who is a qualified counsellor and is doing further study to gain her Bachelors’ degree in counselling, was motivated to set up her counselling business after her brother died of a rare blood cancer three years ago.

Family Help Darlington CIO - Darlington’s Women’s Refuge - can be contacted on 01325-364486.