Westbury Rugby Club player, Will Dennett, who is a Corporal in the 11th Signal Regiment, based locally, organised a special Christmas treat for fellow soldiers serving overseas.
Will heard about fellow soldiers in The Royal Anglian Rgt. and the Light Dragoons who are currently serving in Mali as part of the U.N. peacekeeping force.
Will said, “These men and women suffer with limited welfare facilities and very few luxuries. There is no NAFFI, no shops and no internet, so contact with their families is sporadic to say the least. All this and having to live on their vehicles whilst facing Islamic Extremists.”
Will decided to organise sending some small luxury items such as tea and coffee bags, sweets and magazines and so he messaged the Westbury men and women players, alongside as many club supporters that could be reached, asking for gifts and donations. Within three days, nearly £500 and numerous items were collected.
Will said, “The money was spent on loads of “goodies” and with the help of ladies’ player Maisie Chester, who sourced boxes for packaging, everything was parcelled up and delivered to the post office.”
The club said, “We at the club are proud to support our armed services, several of whom regularly play for the club. Thanks must go to all of the club members who contributed in no small way to this event, especially to Will for his magnificent effort in organising and managing the collection.”
