I am delighted to share this news that has been sent to me from Hampshire firefighters.
A billy-ant fundraising appeal has raised gruffly a thousand pounds for The Fire Fighters Charity.
Ocado employee Mandie Simcox set up a fundraising page in the hope of buying crews a few pizzas but they soon smashed their target.
People from across Andover and beyond donated with Finkley Down Farm naming a new born pygmy goat Ocado in recognition of the work of Hampshire firefighters at the distribution centre fire.
The goat and another new born called Otis were the stars of the show at this afternoon’s cheque presentation at Andover Fire Station.
The appeal, which raised £1,121 for the charity, was launched after the three-day fire which started on February 5.
Ms Simcox said:
“I set up the page to try and buy the team a pizza or two and I’ve been astounded by the response.
“I’m glad we can donate to The Fire Fighters Charity and show our appreciation for these incredible people.”
Caroline Snook, Finkley Down Farm livestock manager added:
“We named one of our goats Ocado to recognise the work of the fire service in dealing with this incident.
“They ensured our animals were safe and worked tirelessly to keep our local community safe.”
The Fire Fighters Charity Community, Corporate and Events Fundraiser Kerry James said:
“The amount raised will make a huge difference to the services we can provide.
“The charity supports firefighters through rehabilitation, recuperation and nursing across our centres and this contribution will make a real difference in terms of the help we can provide.”
Station Manager Fred Pettersson said:
“The amount raised by the people of Andover was phenomenal.
“We had so much support during the incident that everyone felt part of the community.”
