THANKS have been extended to the Crediton Detachment of the Army Cadet Force who helped with a street collection in aid of the soldier's charity, the Army Benevolent Fund (ABF).

The annual event, which this year took place on July 18, was a great success.

Thanks to the generosity of the people of Crediton and the surrounding area, a total of £736.07 was raised.

Philip Hutchens, ABF Devon committee member, a former member of the Coldstream Guards, who lives in Crediton, said: "For more than 60 years the Army Benevolent Fund has worked tirelessly to provide support to serving soldiers, former soldiers and their families in times of need.

"Our Army is committed to active operations around the globe, notably Iraq and Afghanistan, a commitment which demands our help in turn.

"Many members of the Army depend on the (ABF) for regular support and that need is growing at a tremendous rate.

"We also need to respond to an ever increasing number of ageing veterans and their dependants.

"The people we support include those with disabilities or mental illness, people experiencing homelessness or unemployment, and older people who need assistance with daily living."

From the Crediton ACF detachment, Mr Hutchens thanked leaders, Trudi Pincombe and Julie Carrington, Cadet Sgt Ben Pincombe and Cadets Charlton, Jermyn, LeParker, Laine, Webber, Beart-Albrecht, Lemon, Sayers and Hooper.

He also thanked Sgt Alex Hutchens, who is currently serving with the No 2 Company, 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards. The Regiment will be deployed to Afghanistan later this year.

Alex has already served in Iraq with the Regiment, and in 2007/8 in Afghanistan when he was attached to the Scots Guards.

He also thanked members of The Coldstream Guards Association, Exeter Branch, Jim Dyer and Norman Gill and Brian Trelfall, formerly of the Royal Signals.

Sarah Hawkins of Wedges Café was thanked for ensuring that the cadets were "fed and watered" during the day.

A two-day collection was also held at Somerfield before it closed and this raised £421.88.

Mr Hutchens thanked Somerfield, Mrs Karen Brock, staff and customers.

If you could help with a future street collection, please contact Mr Hutchens on 01363 774098.

Mr Hutchens is also honorary secretary of the Exeter branch of the Coldstream Guards Association, which is open to all members of the Household division.

They are currently looking for new members. Meetings are held at the White Ensign Club, South Street, Exeter, on the second Tuesday of each month (except August and December). Enquiries will be welcome on the telephone number as above.