Caring community

So many generous Bexhill and Little Common traders responded to the charity's appeal for prizes that when the raffle drum was rolled at Tuesday's morning's draw ceremony at the Caring Community's Sackville Road office it was jammed with tickets.

Every penny from the raffle and from donations has gone into a bumper distribution of hampers, vouchers and plants to lonely and housebound people in Bexhill this Christmas.

Charity chairman Myrtle Bagnell and organiser Margaret von Speyr were delighted with the traders' generosity and with the public's response.

Margaret said: "It's been fantastic. We have been having responses coming in from all sides.

"They must get lots of charities wanting things and the traders themselves are not a charity."

Myrtle said: "People have been so generous."

This year the Caring Community has worked in conjunction with other town organisations to coordinate the distribution of Christmas gifts.

Margaret said: "We wanted to ensure that there was no duplication with some people getting a lot and others getting nothing.

"A lot of stuff came in from the schools plus donations from other organisations.

"As much money as has come into us we have spent. I can't remember how many hampers and vouchers and plants we have sent out this year..."

Margaret added: "The Bexhill Caring Community would like to thank everyone who has made a contribution to the Christmas Appeal.

"The response has been exceptionally generous and this year we have been able to help many more people than before, due to a joint effort with other organisations, churches and schools in Bexhill. Our thanks also to everyone who made a donation, helped with the packing of hampers and the delivery of hampers and plants.

"To the local businesses in Bexhill and Little Common who have donated raffle prizes, the various pubs and bars who are very kindly raffling Christmas cakes and to the organisations who have raised funds for this worthwhile cause.

"The Bexhill Caring Community relies entirely on legacies and donations to continue to support the residents of Bexhill who are housebound, disabled or lonely and volunteers are always welcome.

"If you feel you are able to help with driving, visiting or fund-raising please contact the Bexhill Caring Community at 25 Sackville Road or telephone 01424 215116."