TWO charities are to fundraise together at Silverton Street Market on Saturday, August 2.

The Street Market, run entirely by volunteers, has since its founding in 1991, raised about a quarter of million pounds for local groups and organisations.

This year, it will also be supporting Joe Bussell, from Shobrooke near Crediton, who has been coordinating deliveries of aid to war-torn Ukraine, since 2022.

Joe and one of his vans will be in the village square on the day, collecting donations.

The Street Market will also be making a donation.

“The theme of the Street Market this year is VE Day and peace in 1945. Joe’s work and that of his volunteers complements this theme in a very real way”, commented Rich Osborne, Chair of the organising committee.

The need for support is apparent almost every day from our television screens and other media sources.

If anything, the situation has recently got worse.

Joe coordinates vehicles, which take much needed necessities, such as medical equipment, medicines, food and clothing.

Joe is just one driver but there is now a team from support organisations, such as Ukraine Action and Rotary Clubs.

All vehicles are now left in Ukraine for local people to use to deliver support.

The Street Market also supported Joe two years ago but the event had to be scaled down because of poor weather.

Rather than describe the bravery and commitment of these volunteer drivers; a much better idea is to see for yourself.

Go to Facebook and look for “JoeBussell”.

It is an annual village celebration with food and drink, entertainment, music, market stalls and tug-of-war.

There will be children’s entertainment, a period military display and will run from 10am to 5pm and admission is £3, under 16' free.

Free parking is provided.