The Harmony Therapy Trust has held a reception to thank all its volunteers and supporters.

It took place at Sheppey Leisure Complex in Sheerness, where the group is based, and was also to officially launch its status as the Times Guardian and Sittingbourne News Extra's Charity of the Year for 2014.

The trust offers free treatments to patients with life altering illnesses and was founded by Minster resident Dawn Cockburn in May 2010.

Around 50 people went to the reception to celebrate the work of the trust.

As well as a buffet and drinks, there was a raffle and ‘guess how many sweets are in the bag’ competition, which, together with donations, raised more than £200 for the cause.

Victoria Couzins, whose mother Rita is the treasurer, had made a celebratory cake and guests were shown a promotional video featuring people who have benefitted from treatments.

Also on the night, on Tuesday last week, Sheppey lawyer Karina Chetwynd revealed she and her husband, Major Graham Chetwynd, with permission of the Ministry of Defence, are offering an exclusive day out for the highest bidder, in aid of Harmony.

Second World War enthusiasts will have the chance to visit Southwick Park, where Churchill and Eisenhower planned the D-Day launches. They will have the chance to see the preserved map room where they followed the news of the landings and have a tour of the stately home.

Weather permitting, guests will also be able to play a game of croquet.

This will be followed by lunch with Major Chetwynd, who will then lead a tour of the camp and a visit to the Royal Military Police Museum.

It is an opportunity not usually available to non-military personnel.

It can be for up to 20 people, in which case it will be a buffet rather than dining in the officers’ mess.

A starting bid has already been put in for £100. The auction ends in May at the trust’s dinner and dance fundraiser.

Mrs Cockburn said: “The evening was just amazing and I just don’t know how to thank Karina – it’s wonderful.”