Burgess Hill theatre club’s Steel Magnolias production raises hundreds for charity

Members of the Burgess Hill Theatre Club were inspired to raise money for Diabetes UK while staging Steel Magnolias.

The production, which ran at Burgess Hill theatre, features a central character with diabetes who dies from complications relating to the condition.

John O’Connor, the play’s director, said: “We put on the show because I’m a fan of 20th century American literature and it features six strong, independent women.

“The play draws strongly on character and how women can rely on each other.

“It also centres on diabetes and the devastating effect it can have on family.

“It’s a great play and because it deals with themes of love and loss, we wanted to do something positive and raise money for a charity that does so much for people living with diabetes.”

The money was raised in after-show collections, and donated to Diabetes UK.

Jill Steaton, Diabetes UK regional head for the South East, said: “We’re really grateful to everyone at Burgess Hill Theatre Club for their amazing fundraising.

“Every penny raised will help us to support the millions of people living with diabetes in the UK.”