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Half term fun at Grosvenor House

17th February 2020

Categories: Visitor News

A group of under-privileged families from the north of Solihull are getting a half term treat this week, thanks to a generous Bed & Breakfast in Torquay. Paula and Ray Duffy, who own and run Grosvenor House, supported by relatives, and a number of local businesses, are giving the families, whose children range in age from 2 to 13, a free seaside holiday, on the beautiful English Riviera.

With the weather set to be fair for half term week, the youngsters will get to explore the beaches and coves around Torquay, go crabbing, play some Jungle Journey adventure-golf, visit neighbouring Paignton and Brixham, and take in some of the attractions including Dinosaur World, Torquay Museum, Babbacombe Model Village and Babbacombe Cliff Railway. The couple have also planned some fun evening activities, to help make it a holiday week to remember.

Paula & Ray heard about the plight of the families, from former Solihull councillor, Debbie Evans. Debbie, who’s stayed at Grosvenor House several times, now works tirelessly with HYPE (Helping Young People Excel) to support young families in the Kingshurst and Chelmsley Wood communities. She has worked closely with a school in north Solihull, to identify families most in need of a break, and along with daughter, Sarah, and support from the Digby Fund, paid for the coach transport.

Paula said: “Debbie told us about the families, and although we sent some dried goods for food parcels, we felt we could do more. So Ray and I suggested the holiday, which we’re delighted is happening. We couldn’t have done it without the support of Booker Wholesalers, local catering supplier, Caterfoods, or our farm egg suppliers, Black Dog Eggs in Crediton, who've helped us provide breakfasts and evening meals.

"Stagecoach, who operate the local bus network, have provided free tickets for the families to get around. And once the families head home, Downton Dry Cleaners, have agreed to process the laundry for free, as well."

Debbie Evans said: “Many of these families are struggling to make ends meet, let alone afford luxuries like a holiday. Grosvenor House in Torquay has been wonderful in offering this chance, and I know from speaking to the families, they are overwhelmed by Paula & Ray’s generosity.”

A spokesperson for the school, which most of the children attend, says they're delighted that the families are getting a holiday. "We all know that a break is good for us, but sadly some of our families have not had the opportunity to have a break with their children due to a number of life stresses.

"We have five parents and ten very excited children who cannot wait to take their first break as a family together. This very kind gesture from Paula and Ray is giving then a opportunity to unwind, relax, create long lasting memories, experience new things and most importantly have lots of fun together!

"We can't thank Paula and Ray enough for offering our families this opportunity. The thought, kindness and hard work they've put in to ensure the families have the best experience has been fantastic."

The families are at Grosvenor House from Monday 17^th February.