Fish finger fundraiser nominates new beneficiary

A cafe owner who has raised tens of thousands of pounds for charity by selling fish finger sandwiches has named a new beneficiary.

Rhona Hewit nominated the Sophie Reid Neurological Association as her chosen organisation to receive the proceeds from the sale of the brittle butties this year.

Ms Hewit said Ms Reid, who was diagnosed with a grade three brain tumour in 2024, was an "absolutely phenomenal woman" for her work to raise awareness of neurological illnesses.

Ms Reid said the support was a "a powerful vote of confidence" in the organisation and she was "deeply grateful".

Last year the Rhona's at the Beach owner raised more than £10,000 for Enable Jersey.

In total she said she had raised more than £60,000 for charities over two decades.

Ms Hewit is due to retire this year, so this will be her last time raising funds through the cafe but she remained hopeful any new owner would continue supporting good causes.

She said the Sophie Reid Neurological Association was a new organisation that was deserving of her support.

"I hope we do manage to raise awareness for her," she said.

"She's a force of nature."

Ms Reid said the backing would help "shine a light on neurological conditions".

The group she set up is registered as a non-profit organisation with the Jersey Financial Services Commission and she is hopeful of receiving charity status soon, she said.

"This kind of support goes far beyond fundraising, it's a powerful vote of confidence in our mission and the people we exist to serve," she said.

"The support from Rhona's at the Beach will help us continue raising awareness of neurological illness in Jersey, while also strengthening our ability to support individuals and families who often feel overlooked, isolated, or unsure where to turn after diagnosis."

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