Surprise for bereaved kids during Jarrow Town Hall visit

Cruse Crew families were given an extra special surprise when they visited Jarrow Town Hall.

The Cruse Crew visited the venue in Grange Road to meet the Mayor and Mayoress of South Tyneside Coun Richard Porthouse and his wife Patricia.

However, their meet and greet was interrupted when a Ghostbuster and Stormtrooper walked into the room.

Leila Kassae is presented with her certificate.

The surprise visit was carried out by members of North East-based charity costuming group Authentic Replica Costumes (ARC).

Cash raised during a collection by ARC was also handed over to the Cruse Crew.

The volunteer-led group, based at Chuter Ede Community Centre, South Shields, provides a support network for bereaved families through drop-in sessions and activities.

Coun Porthouse said: “It was inspiring to meet the volunteers who make up The Cruse Crew as well as the children and young people they help to support.

“The Mayoress and I were delighted to welcome them all into Jarrow Town Hall and were thrilled when the youngsters were surprised with a visit from their favourite film, TV and comic book characters.”

As well as the visit, volunteer Leila Kassae was also presented with a certificate in recognition of the help she has given to the group.

Drop-in sessions are held on Tuesdays from 6pm for families and Thursdays 6pm for adults and resume on April 12.

For more information, visit www.crusecrew.co.uk