There was tea, cake, plenty of conversation and a very worthwhile reason for bringing people together when Jeake’s House in Mermaid Street opened its doors for a special fundraising afternoon tea in aid of Breast Cancer Now.
Owners Doris and Chris Jennings, together with family and staff, welcomed guests to the historic house on Saturday 22 August, serving a delicious traditional afternoon tea and raising money for a cause which touches the lives of so many families.
The event was part of Breast Cancer Now’s nationwide Afternoon Tea fundraising campaign, which encourages people to get together over sandwiches, scones and cake while supporting the charity’s work. They raised £1722 including money from a raffle.
But behind the relaxed atmosphere and laden cake stands is a very serious purpose. Money raised for Breast Cancer Now helps fund world-class research into breast cancer, including better treatments, prevention and earlier diagnosis. It also supports services for people living with and beyond breast cancer, including specialist nurses, information and a free helpline, as well as the charity’s campaigning work to improve treatment and care.
Breast Cancer Now has invested more than £315 million in breast cancer research and currently funds more than 90 research projects. Its ambition is that by 2050 everyone diagnosed with breast cancer will live and live well.
For Doris and Chris, the afternoon was also another opportunity to bring the community into Jeake’s House. Since taking over the historic Mermaid Street property in February 2025, the couple has embraced Rye life, being keen to use their beautiful surroundings to support good causes.
With family helping to serve the guests, the afternoon had the warmth of a family gathering as well as a fundraiser proving once again that sometimes something as simple as sitting down together for tea and cake can make a real difference.
Cathy Macey said, “Such a lovely afternoon, delicious food and for such a worthy cause. Thank you for organising and hosting this event.”
All proceeds from the afternoon will support Breast Cancer Now and its work to change the future for people affected by breast cancer.
Image Credits: Kt bruce .