IN the true spirit of Ramadan executives at the Banyan Tree hotel and spa are playing their cards right and helping others during the Holy Month.

After reading a report in GulfWeekly highlighting the creative greeting cards being produced at Manama's Sneha Centre for children with special needs, newly-appointed marketing and communications director Catherine Bolton suggested using the cards instead of the resort's usual expensive, designer versions normally commissioned for Ramadan, Eid and other special occasions.

She got in touch with the centre, which is run by the Indian Ladies Association, and - backed by the resort's management - went to meet the children. Catherine said: "I am delighted to confirm our long-term partnership with Sneha cards all thanks to your article.

"We have ordered 2,000 cards for Ramadan and Eid and will be entering into an on-going relationship with the centre for all our seasonal collateral requirements as well as birthday cards, anniversary cards, thank you cards etc.

"I went to visit the children and it was so cute as they presented the Banyan Tree with a painting. I soon got involved with the art class and really enjoyed the interaction - the youngsters and staff are a seriously great group of people.

"The centre is very bright and has a nice atmosphere, all the children seem very happy and you can see they are enjoying themselves, they really deserve to have that dedicated time each day."

And Catherine's visit prompted her to set up a whole host of other tie-ups with the centre.

Art Lounge 2 will be held at the Banyan Tree Al Areen over 10 days from October 23 and some of the profits will go to help purchase art supplies for the children's centre.

The resort and spa is also arranging a full day excursion for the teachers and children to enjoy the facilities at the hotel and the surrounding wildlife park.

The children are also producing exclusive designs for the Banyan Tree so Sneha cards can be used for every occasion.

Catherine added: "I am interested in starting up a mentoring programme between the school and Banyan Tree, but that will only be in action next year as it involves long-term commitment from our associates.

"And it's all thanks to that one article in GulfWeekly!"