AARON Lewis Foundation trustee Helen Lewis got a pleasant surprise when she met with Rochford councillor Lesley Butcher – a cheque for £8,333.
The ALF was Mrs Butcher’s chosen charity during her year at council chairman and the cash was raised through various activities and initiatives including charity collection tins, and more than £300 from the council’s Community Outreach Group.
Mrs Butcher said: “The late Aaron Lewis grew up in Rochford, and joined the Army because he wanted to make a difference in the world. His friends and family set up The Aaron Lewis Foundation in order to continue making a difference in his name.
“I chose to support this charity because it helps a variety of local and national good causes and am delighted to have been able to raise so much money. I would like to thank my colleagues, family and friends who have helped me”.
Mrs Lewis – Aaron’s mum – recently met Mrs Butcher to receive the donation.
She said: “Everyone involved with running The Aaron Lewis Foundation really does appreciate the support shown by Lesley Butcher, Rochford District Council and the community of the Rochford district.
“What an amazing amount of money to have raised! I was completely shocked and speechless when I was told of the amount raised and presented with the cheque.”
“This very generous donation will be spent helping within the community and The Aaron Lewis Foundation will keep Mrs Butcher updated on who benefits from this very generous donation. Thank you once again to Mrs Butcher and everyone who supported her amazing fundraising efforts.”