Thanks to a donation of £2,000 from the Freemasons of Mansfield Town Charity Committee, independent living residents at Portland College have been getting in the Christmas spirit.

As they look forward to spending the festive season together on campus, residents decided to create their own Christmas T-shirts so they all have something special to wear on the big day.

Part of the donation was used to buy stencils, fabric pens and blank T-shirts, as well as a sewing machine that residents have used to make Christmas stockings.

Maggie Waring, independent living manager, said: “Christmas can be a difficult time of year for some of our residents, so the whole team pulls together to make sure everyone gets the magical Christmas they deserve.

“We are thankful for this kind donation, which will make Christmas 2020 the best yet.

“We’ve got some fabulous things planned for the festive period.”

The rest of the funds will be used to buy Christmas gifts for residents and a covered bicycle rack for outside independent living building, Rowan.

Ken Purslow, of Mansfield Town Freemason’s Charity Committee, added: “In its 26th year, our annual swimathon took place in March, and although lockdown restrictions disrupted our plans, 30 swimmers were still able to take part.

“The event raises money for a specific charity each year. This year, our chosen charity was Portland College. We’re delighted that the funds raised will be put to good use.”

The college’s independent living programme provides supported accommodation for people with disabilities, enabling them to develop the skills and confidence to help transition into independent futures.