Huge publicity last year when the farm site came under threat of development ensured that most Hastings residents knew all about the charity.

But this week Observer editor Peter Lindsey had a chance to see another side of the trust's work – its centre at Nelson Road.

While Friary Gardeners teaches gardening skills to the more able bodied disabled adults, at Nelson Road the focus is on assistance with day-to-day living and one-to-one care for the severely disabled.

Behind the doors of the Parchment Trust Centre in Nelson Road, Peter discovered a lively atmosphere and bustling activity as the centre went about it's daily business.

A co-operative scheme encourages the service users to live as independently as possible, planning, shopping and cooking their meals and enjoying a range of activities including crafts, painting, photography and using the computer.

The visit was an eye-opener for the editor. "I knew all about Friary Gardeners because we publish lots of stories about them," he said after the visit. "But the work that goes on at Nelson Road is amazing. The staff and volunteers are brilliant and there's a huge sense of purpose and energy in the place."

The Parchment Trust provides an almost unique service in East Sussex, caring for disabled adults who might otherwise be left to struggle alone or lack individual care and encouragement. Founded in 1994 the Trust now cares for over two hundred adults through their various schemes.

To learn more about Parchment Trust, it can be seen at work at Ore Place Farm where Friary Gardens are open weekdays 9.30am–3.30 pm.

The Parchment Trust is also the beneficiary of funds raised at the Tequila Sunset jazz night at Fairlight Hall on Saturday, September 13.

Tickets (non-returnable) for the event featuring Ronnie Scott's All Stars, are on sale at Hastings Information Centre, which can be contacted on 01424 451128.