. . . And all because tea lovers from across the UK will be switching their kettles on to take part in the great National Tea Break, being held in aid of Epilepsy Action on Friday October 17.
This year's event marks the sixth time running for the grand scale tea party. Hundreds will raise their cups and enjoy a 'cuppa' to help raise vital funds for the 456,000 people living with epilepsy in the UK.
The event has been supported by TV stars and personalities, who have provided a variety of delicious recipe cards for the Tea Break packs being issued to the many taking part. Celebrities include comedians Victoria Wood and Jo Brand; fitness expert Rosemary Conley; top chef Alan Coxon; and many more.
Philippa Corner, Epilepsy Action's fundraising events manager, said: "Why not have your cake and eat it by enjoying the delights of a tea party with friends and family, while also raising money for this worthy cause!
"If you can't take part on October 17, just organise a tea party for a day that best suits you. Our organiser's starter pack has been specially put together to help you every step of the way, so no excuses, get your cups and saucers ready and join in the party!"
Everyone who registers to be a Tea Break organiser will receive a pack containing an organiser's guide full of useful hints and tips, posters to promote the event, invitation cards to send to friends, family or work colleagues, celebrity recipe cards, balloons and paying-in slips for donations.
Money can be raised by asking guests for a donation for tea, biscuits and cakes. Other fundraising ideas, including quizzes, can be found by visiting www.epilepsy.org.uk/teabreak. The site also includes Teefax celebrity recipes and many of the documents in the organiser’s pack are also downloadable from the official website.
This year, the charity will be auctioning a fantastic House of Commons mug and saucer set signed by Prime Minister, Gordon Brown. The set will be available online at auctioning website eBay from Friday October 17 for 10 days.
Everyone taking part in a Tea Break will also have the opportunity to enter a free prize draw. Prizes on offer include a £50 Marks & Spencer voucher; A Maxwell & Williams fine bone china three piece tea set donated by Heal's Department Store; and a number of runner-up prizes donated by Ahmad Teas Ltd and Churchill's Confectionary plc.
Since Epilepsy Action’s first National Tea Break, a total of £76,000 has been raised and this year the charity hopes to break the £100,000 barrier. To join in the tea party fun, contact Philippa Corner on 0113 210 8800 or register online at www.epilepsy.org.uk/teabreak.