PRIME Minister Theresa May has shown her support for a children’s charity as it celebrates its Golden Jubilee.

A letter of congratulations was sent to Brighton-based Rockinghorse from 10 Downing Street following a recent anniversary launch event by the charity.

Rockinghorse is the official fundraising arm of the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital in Brighton and also supports the Trevor Mann baby unit at the neighbouring Royal Sussex County Hospital.

It also supports the baby unit at Princess Royal Hospital in Haywards Heath as well as other children’s services and centres across Sussex.

Mrs May highlighted the good work carried out by Sussex in the letter, writing: “ I am always impressed by the amazing work of local charities and community groups who work tirelessly to support the needs of local people.

“Responding to the challenges of supporting some of the most vulnerable children and adults in our society is not something that the Government can do alone.

“For a charity to have been supporting the children of Sussex for 50 years is a superb achievement and something of which the entire community should be incredibly proud.

“I would like to congratulate the Rockinghorse Children’s Charity on reaching its Golden Jubilee and I send my best wishes for the next 50 years.”

Rockinghorse chief executive Ryan Heal said: “We are overwhelmed to receive such a wonderful letter of support from the Prime Minister.

“It is such an honour for the charity to be recognised in this way at such a prominent time in its history.

“I speak on behalf of the whole team at Rockinghorse when I say how excited we are to have launched our 50th year fundraising appeal – a time for celebration and continuing to make a real impact on the lives of local children right here in Sussex.”

The fundraising appeal, called Sussex Giving for Sussex Children, is aiming to raise at least £500,000 to be split between 10 children’s centres and paediatric services in Sussex.

The aim is to help them improve, refurbish and develop their environment for the young people benefiting from their work.