A TWENTIETH garden party on Monday to thank the many people who have been involved with children's charity CHICKS over the years has welcomed a special visitor — the Duke of Gloucester.

The event was set in the gardens of CHICKS' Moorland Retreat near Brentor, where the Duke unveiled a plaque commemorating the special day.

He also enjoyed a tour of the retreat with CHICKS' chair of trustees Marion Luckhurst.

Guests were invited to indulge in a traditional cream tea while admiring the grounds in which so many happy memories have been made. They were also given a tour of the retreat itself.

There was entertainment from a balloon artist, and the 32 children currently enjoying a free respite break at CHICKS' two retreats enjoyed a magic show and were taught circus skills by a clown.

Although the day was rather wet, the smooth sounds of saxophonist Martin Dale and the fantastic display of the history of CHICKS allowed guests to relax and share their own memories and experience of the charity.

Over the last 20 years, CHICKS has gone from welcoming children in tents to acquiring two retreats — the other is in Cornwall — set in stunning countryside and coastal surroundings.

The children CHICKS care for come from a variety of backgrounds. Many have been abused, live in poverty, or have been neglected.

This year, CHICKS aims to help another 1,200 children, reaching another milestone of providing its 10,000th break in September.