PEOPLE in Dorset are continuing to give generously to help survivors of the Philippines typhoon disaster.

Members of Dorchester Rotary clubs reported that almost £10,000 was raised in three days last week from a stall in South Street.

On Saturday a fitness challenge was held at Unit Fitness and Defence at the Tradecroft Industrial Estate on Portland and shoppers also donated cash at a fundraiser at Asda in Weymouth.

Peter Noble, of Dorchester Rotary clubs, said the people of the county town have ‘exceeded even their own generosity’.

Mr Noble said: “I think the biggest single donation by an individual was £100 but dozens of people were handing over £10 and £20 notes.

“People in Dorchester are extraordinarily generous, and I think people know that funds donated through Rotary will go directly to where it’s needed most.”

Gift Aid added £900 to the total raised and the amount will be split between Shelterbox and Water Survival Box.

At the Asda store in Weymouth, shoppers gave £1,401.67 and people got the chance to find out how vital the Shelterbox is.

Shoppers were invited inside a tent in the foyer of the store and volunteers from Weymouth Rotary clubs were on hand to explain to people about the Cornwall-based charity.

Community life champion Sandy West said: “It was fantastic to see so many people not only giving money, but also taking an interest in what goes into a Shelterbox.

“It is literally everything you need to sustain life, from the tent, to a cooker, water purification tablets and even colouring books for children.”

Sandy, who is also a borough councillor, added: “I couldn’t believe the images from the Philippines, it was just shocking.

“I’m a mother myself and having no food or anything for your kids must be the worst thing.

“I was delighted that we have been able to accommodate the fundraising here at Asda.”

On Portland, fitness fans got into the fundraising swing with a 12-hour challenge at Unit Fitness and Defence.

Owner Mark Culbreth said he and wife Juliet wanted to help after hearing about the disaster.

Mark said: “The thing with natural disasters is that people have lost everything – their children, parents, homes, jobs.

“You just can’t imagine what they are going through and it’s so important to help them get back on their feet.”

Gym members were invited to take part in four-hour relays including cycling, rowing and weight machines.

With money still coming in, an estimated £800 has been raised.

Mark added: “Our members have been brilliant, they’ve done us proud.”

Where to make a donation

To make a donation drop in cash or send a cheque made payable to ‘DEC Philippines Typhoon Appeal’ to the Dorset Echo offices at Granby Industrial Estate, Hampshire Road, Weymouth DT4 9XD; Antelope Walk, Dorchester DT1 1BE or at the Bridport News, 67 East Street, Bridport DT6 3LB.
You can also visit dec.org.uk or call the 24-hour hotline on 0370 60 60 900, donate over the counter at a bank or post office or send a cheque.
You can also make a donation of £5 by texting the word SUPPORT to 70000.
What your money will buy those in need:
£25 – Water purification tablets for ten families for a month.
£50 – Feed a family for two weeks.
£100 – Emergency shelter and bedding for a family.
n To find out more visit dorsetecho.co.uk/typhoon