VOLUNTEERS at a mental health charity are set to bring a little taste of America to the area next week.

The team at Restore, in Manzil Way, East Oxford, is busy putting the finishing touches to its Thanksgiving-inspired fundraiser set to take place next Thursday.

It is the first time a USA-themed pub quiz, along with nachos, American pie, ice-cream and a Wheel of Fortune, has been organised to help the charity raise urgently needed funds to support people battling mental health difficulties across the county.

Community fundraiser Hannah Feldman, who hopes to raise £500 through the event, said: “With Oxford’s Christmas lights up since mid-October, we thought people may be a bit Christmased-out by November.

“So we wanted to do something a little different from your average Christmas-themed fundraiser.

“Our supporters have been so wonderful to us this year, despite difficult financial times, so celebrating a holiday that is all about showing gratitude seems very appropriate.

“It will be great fun – a US themed quiz, interactive rounds, live music, and delicious food – what better way to spend a cold, dark November evening?

“Winter is an especially difficult time for people with mental health problems and the money raised will make a significant difference for the lives of our members.”

The mental health charity needs £1.4m to run its recovery and coaching services across Oxfordshire each year.

It was founded in 1977 by Lord Young of Dartington and psychiatrist Dr Peter Agulnik to provide work and volunteering opportunities for residents with mental health conditions.

More than 700 people were supported by the charity’s 120-strong team of volunteers and about 40 staff members last year.

Ms Feldman said: “The event will ensure that we can keep on going.

“It’s events like this that means we can continue to provide the services for everyone that comes through our door.

“We don’t want to ever have to turn people away and at the moment we are incredibly lucky to be free to the whole community.”

Supporters are being called on to join the Thanks Quizzing event at Restore’s Garden cafe from 7pm and are being urged to book their £9 tickets which include food and a drink, in advance.

* See bitly.com/thanks-quizzing for more details