A FUNDRAISING coffee morning has raised £2,500 for the DEC Turkey -Syria Earthquake Relief Fund.

The event, organised by Stow Community Trust at the Station House, was held to show support for resident Serpil Renton who moved to Scotland from her native Turkey 18 years ago.

And last Wednesday, Serpil and volunteer Eibhlin McHugh visited the Red Cross shop in Galashiels and presented a cheque to shop manager Chris Swinney.

With Gift Aid, that sum was increased to £3,125.

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Eibhlin said: “Stow Community Trust was delighted to be able to support Serpil and her friends.

“The response was amazing. Volunteers gave of their time generously to help organise the event. It was a full house at the Station House throughout the morning.

Border Telegraph: L to R Eibhlin McHugh, Chris Swinney and Serpil Renton Image John HislopL to R Eibhlin McHugh, Chris Swinney and Serpil Renton Image John Hislop

“People arrived with donations of delicious home bakes and presents for the Tombola and the raffle.

“Financial donations came pouring in before the event and throughout the morning.

“The event was well supported by our local businesses. Gordon Anderson, our local milkman, organised a guess how many tatties in the sack competition. Borders Firewood donated a load of logs for the raffle and Alison Runciman, Stow Post Office and Shop collected donations for the event.

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“The £2,500 raised surpassed our expectations. A fantastic achievement for a village the size of Stow. This event brought out the best in our village, it demonstrated what we achieve when we all work together as a community as well as our compassion and generosity to others who desperately need our help.”

Serpil said: “I have friends and family in Turkey whose home have been destroyed and have to stay in shelters. It’s so upsetting and sad but I’m happy that I have been able to help raise money to help.

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“I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone that was involved and feel so very emotional. I have so much appreciation.”

The efforts were also praised by Red Cross Shop manager Chris Swinney.

She said: “It never ceases to amaze me how generous the local community can be when they come together. I can’t thank them enough. It was a phenomenal effort and everyone should be very proud. Cash is what is needed now and this donation will go straight to the fund.”