THOUSANDS of pounds have been raised by an epilepsy charity's festive fundraising drive.

Young Epilepsy's Reach for the Stars campaign raised a massive £6,000 over Christmas, with £500 coming from festive ice-rink sessions at Redhill's Belfry Centre and the rest by selling the chance to sponsor decorations on their Christmas tree.

Andy Nash, manager of the Belfry, explained: "A skating session was £3.50 and this included time on the rink and a hot chocolate.

"For each £3.50 raised we donated 50p to the campaign. We were delighted to be able to do this because although this is a national charity, it is a local charity as well."

He added: "I aim to put Belfry at the heart of Redhill and this includes supporting local causes."

Sara Willcocks who works for the charity, which has its headquarters in Lingfield, said: "This was our first Christmas working with the Belfry and we were so overwhelmed with the support from them.

"Our staff came down and helped out with face painting in Santa's grotto in the shopping centre. We were given such a warm reception."

She added: "We are keen to work with local businesses across the area and this was a very important part in progressing this. Reach for the Stars was a key part in raising funds and just as importantly in raising awareness about epilepsy."

Young Epilepsy, formerly known as National Centre for Young People with Epilepsy, provides support, education and health care for children and young people with epilepsy.

Natalie Mills, 20, who has grown up with the condition attends the centre twice a week.

She said fundraising campaigns like this were imperative to bring awareness to the condition.

Natalie, from Warlingham, said: "Going to Young Epilepsy has made me grow with confidence, I'm a different person."