ADULTS with learning difficulties are gearing up for a special Christmas event.

The group of around 100 over 18s meet every month at one of the city's most popular clubs for a night of disco and dancing.

Now they are getting ready for their Christmas party at The Edge - but organisers are asking for your help to make it a success.

Club Night was set up by support worker Charlee Bradbury, when she realised there wasn't a safe place for people with learning difficulties to enjoy clubbing.

The 23 year old from Fareham said: "It's about socialisation. A lot of people will go home from a day service and have nothing to do. There are activities but most people are like us, they just want to live. They want to go out with people and have fun. It's really important for them. Lots of people have met there. We've had people make real friendships and even a couple of romances".

But it wasn't easy finding a venue - when Charlee emailed city clubs only one got back to her.

She said: "The Edge have been absolutely fantastic, the bar staff, security and management all help make the evening as wonderful as it is for the 100 people that attend every month and without them we wouldn't be able to hold this event ".

Venue manager Andreas Maragkos added: "The Edge has been here for 22 years and we are all about embracing diversity. When Charlee approached us we were like we don't get it - why hasn't she been able to find anywhere. Everybody has the right to a party and to have fun. So we took a risk and to be honest it's our only trouble free night".

But he added that because Charlee runs the night in her spare time and the small entry cost covers the cost of the DJ, clubbers at other nights are asked to help make the group's themed nights extra special. He said: "We want to get a Christmas present for everybody for next Tuesday so we have a donation box for anyone who wants to donate".

DJ Darcy Buckland is on the decks each month and said: "I love doing it because it includes my two favourite things, playing music and making people dance. It's such a rewarding feeling to see everyone dancing, singing and enjoying the night.

"I usually play a bit of everything, always request friendly. I've noticed a lot of cheesy pop goes down well, but then again, whose guilty pleasure isn't cheesy pop? The music ranges from 80, 90's, 00's and chart tracks. It really is a night that caters to everyone".

The keen clubbers meet up once a month, alcohol is served and DJ Darcy Buckland is on the decks from 7.00-9.30pm.

There are special themed nights regularly, with the December 3 event featuring Christmas songs and decor.

Entry is £3 and carers get in free.