AN EVENING of pizza and Prosecco helped raise almost £700 for an Abingdon charity that helps vulnerable young people.

The 'Autumn Soiree’, which included a raffle, was organised by Giancarlo Ungaro, general manager of Abingdon’s The Crown and Thistle in Bridge Street, who invited around 90 guests to the inn last Wednesday in aid of local charity, The Abingdon Bridge (TAB).

During the evening TAB's chairman of trustees Chris Bryan explained the important work the charity does for young people in the community, offering a space for teenagers struggling with emotional issues to find independent confidential counselling support and advice.

He said: "It was a great opportunity to explain about our work in the area with some of our most vulnerable young people to so many guests.

"TAB is a local charity which relies entirely on the financial support of the community. The Crown and Thistle wanted to support a local charity. As we are their nearest neighbour, they were very keen to help us. The event raised £685, and we are extremely grateful for the support we received."

Last year, TAB held more than 1,000 sessions covering everything from counselling and drug awareness to housing and employment advice.

Mr Ungaro said: “I’ve only been here for three months and it was good to meet so many local people. As a local business, we appreciate all the support we get from those who live and work in and around Abingdon, whether they are eating, drinking, sleeping, working or using our barn for entertaining.

"We also feel it’s really important to give something back to our community and TAB's work is important for our community too, so it was the obvious and perfect choice."

Several businesses and clubs in the area donated prizes, including Frilford Heath Golf Club, Charlie Mann Racing, Abingdon Rugby Club and Sean Anthony Hairdressing.