An ELLESMERE-based charity helping people with communication disabilities is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

The Sequal Trust, based on Wharf Road, was set up in 1969 and works to give a voice to people who have communication disabilities by providing suitable assistive technology.

Patrons of the trust include comedian Lee Ridley, known by his stage name of The Lost Voice Guy, and late physicist and cosmetologist, Professor Stephen Hawking.

To mark 50 years since the charity was founded; ex-staff, speech and language therapists, communication aids suppliers, donors and members who use the charity’s services, gathered at the Orangery restaurant based at Derwen College for an afternoon of celebrations.

Liz Downes, charity manager since 2003, said the work the charity does across the country is very unique.

“We have worked to supply communication aids for people with any disability that affects their speech,” she said.

“If they’re housebound or unable to get outside and contact the world, we help them to be able to do that.

“We are a national charity, and we’re the only charity in the country which does exactly what we do, because we maintain and repair all the equipment after they’ve been issued as well, so there’s no outlay or expense to anyone.

“If you imagine the vastly disabled children who can’t speak, they can’t access the education curriculum, they have no chances of accessing whatever prospects they have for the future.

“At the same time, we have members who are in their 90s who have had a stroke, and they can’t articulate with anybody, so it’s important for everyone.

“I love my job – before I was a banker, and I got to a point when I just wanted to help people.

“This charity is great for that, it’s very fulfilling.”

Several charity committee members gave special mentions at the start of the event, before they enjoyed a meal and refreshments.

Those in attendance were then treated to a live performance from Lee, who had the whole room laughing.

Liz added: “He was absolutely brilliant. I first approached Lee about three years ago and he’s been amazing for us since.

“He’s such a nice guy, he’s one of the few comedians who genuinely makes me laugh out loud.

“It was great to have him with us on the day.”

For more information about the charity, visit www.thesequaltrust.org.uk