A FANTASTIC effort from schools, businesses and residents saw mid Cheshire pull its collective socks up and raise more than £3,000 for charity.

The Cheshire Down’s Syndrome Support Group (CDSSG) made odd socks the theme of its annual appeal this year, which coincided with World Down’s Syndrome Awareness Day on March 21.

Julie Duff, from the charity, said: “It has been fantastic to see how many people have got involved this year.

“The odd sock theme really got people talking and significantly raised awareness of Down’s Syndrome in our community.”

The charity has been helped by The Duke of Portland pub, which raised money by offering customers a ‘Dish for Down’s’ and LA Fitness, which hosted a cake sale and a swimathon.

A whole host of schools and nurseries joined in with the fun with the finale being the County High School Leftwich and Davenham Primary School joint spring concert, where all the musicians wore their odd socks.

Julie, whose son Joshua has Down’s Syndrome, said: “Down Syndrome is the most common genetic disorder with 1:1000 children being born with the condition.

“World Down’s Syndrome Awareness Week is a very special week to us as a charity.

“We have been able to create greater awareness of the support that is available in Cheshire for parents of children with Down’s Syndrome as well as fundraise towards the vital services we provide.

“A big thank you goes out to everyone who took part.”

The Cheshire Down’s Syndrome Support Group will be running the event again next year.

To get involved email the group at cdssgroup@yahoo.com or call Julie Duff on 07764 502665.

To support the charity donate £3 by texting DOSH213 to 70070.

For more information visit cheshiredownssyndrome.com.