FOR almost 30 years, generous people in South Zeal, Sticklepath, Okehampton, Belstone, Sampford Courtenay and nearby villages have donated items that have been collected locally and taken by volunteers at their own cost to help those less fortunate in Eastern Europe.

It all started with an old lorry and a lot of good will and faith. Over the years they have helped the Kurds, people in Romania and, more recently, those in need in Moldova, with donations of clothes, toys and other essentials.

Some years later the group merged with the Christian Response to Eastern Europe (CR2EE), which is now celebrating 20 years of linking those with something to donate, on through a chain of volunteers, who ensure the donations are placed in the hands of those in desperate need.

Ursula Radford from South Zeal, who along with husband Roy has been involved for 27 years, said: 'In doing so it has brought people of many faiths and others together in a single cause that bridges a gap between societies that are so far apart that the plight of others can be barely believed — until first-hand accounts of reliable witnesses can be heard.

'At a recent meeting in Exeter, a few local people were among those CR2EE brought together with a few that received the donations from this area. 

'Their words of personal appreciation being expressed on behalf of many for the love, friendship, trust and understanding, shown to them all  by so many people here, interpreted by volunteers, not only completed a circle but also brought tears to many eyes.'

Ursula added that the silent group heard from those who received or witnessed gifts being received of the joy of a hospitalised eight-year-old receiving his or her first toy, the value of a shoe-box filled for a child or adult, male or female, baby-wear, home items or foods.

'Their profuse thanks were expressed to be conveyed to all those volunteers who donate items and convey them through CR2EE to those in need and that includes a great many people in this area.'      

From modest beginnings around 150 people are now involved in the West Devon area.

Roy added: 'Those involved are not all Christians or believers, it's just wonderful how everybody works together and how many people have helped over the years for such a great and worthwhile cause.'