READERS of the North Devon Journal will be familiar with some of the work that A Flight, 22 Squadron does as part of the RAF's search and rescue helicopter force across South West England and South Wales — we are up to 230 rescues so far this year.

However, we want to thank those in the local community who have helped us in our charity fundraising efforts.

As part of A Flight's contribution to the local community, we organised a Christmas Prize Draw last December to raise funds for two charities — one national, with a service link, and one with strong local connections: Combat Stress and Westmead House Cheshire Home in Braunton.

Cheshire Homes were founded by Group Captain Leonard Cheshire VC, one of the RAF's most accomplished bomber pilots of WW2, to provide residential care for those with severe physical disabilities.

Now known as Leonard Cheshire Disability, the charity runs Westmead House in Braunton for some 19 adults and actively encourages them to achieve their maximum level of independence.

There are plans to build new physiotherapy facilities at Westmead House — so donations are especially welcome.

A Flight had a terrific response from local shops and businesses who donated a wide variety of draw prizes from MoTs to meals out and hotel stays to haircuts — with some heartening displays of generosity.

Despite being a unit of only some 50 personnel, we had a great night and raised £1,750.

We would like to thank all those who supported us with prize donations from across North Devon, as well as those members of A Flt who overspent on the night and had some explaining to do when they got home!

For a variety of reasons, there have been delays in donating the money we raised but on August 21 we did get some of the Westmead House residents and staff over for a visit to see our helicopters close up and receive a cheque.

Our sincere thanks again to all who supported us – thank you North Devon.

And if anyone wishes to offer help to Westmead House – please get in touch with them on 01271 815 195 or via www.LCDisability.org

Squadron Leader Hugh Pierce

● See Chequepoint p36.