A COLLECTION in aid of the Army Benevolent Fund (ABF) took place at the Crediton Tesco store at Wellparks on Monday, December 16.

Philip Hutchens, Events Executive for the Army Benevolent Fund and serving soldiers Private Thomas Hayward and Corporal Christopher Sarson, received generous donations from shoppers.

Mr Hutchens said: “The amount raised was a fantastic £713.03.

“In the financial year 23/24, we helped 75,000 people in 51 countries worldwide and funded 86 other charities and organisations that deliver frontline services.

“Thanks to our volunteers and supporters, in the Southwest Region we were able to help 367 members of the Army family as well as to aid many charities that offer specialist support and care on our behalf. In Devon alone we helped in the region of 85 veterans and serving soldiers.

“The overall scale, breadth and range of our support is vast. We help very young serving families cope with a sudden bereavement or traumatic loss.

“We provide wide-ranging support to wounded soldiers, many of whom will need increasing financial assistance for decades to come.

“We provide help with housing, education, and training for employment for soldiers and veterans of all ages. We are there for older veterans and their widows or widowers when they find themselves lonely or isolated.

“Store collections and donations make it possible for us to support those in need for the long term – doing our bit for those who have done theirs.”

Mr Hutchens added: “On behalf of the Army Benevolent Fund (ABF), I would like to thank Ben (Community Champion), customers and staff for the support they gave.”

If you wish to find out more about the charity, visit the web page: https://armybenevolentfund.org/ or Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/ABFSouthWest .