The RAF ASSOCIATION’s Ryedale Branch has celebrated a successful year of fundraising.

After collecting money throughout the year with street collections and at events such as Armed Forces Day, the branch has managed to raise £2,300 through its Wings Appeal – the RAF Association’s on-going campaign to support serving and ex-RAF personnel and their families.

Contributions have also been made by businesses such as The Hidden Market in Pickering.

This total raised comes after the decision was taken to cancel this year Battle of Britain Service, due to the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.

The branch also ran a scaled down version of its annual September Wings Week, due to the fundraising week falling at the same time as the death of her Majesty.

On street collections were held, along with collections at Helmsley Walled Garden - who hosted the branch's Gazebo on a wet Sunday.

The next Branch Meeting will be on Wednesday, October 5, at the Malton and Norton Golf Club.

At the meeting, the guest speaker will be Davina Mortimer from Malton’s specialist health food retailer, The Beecham Weigh.

Visitors are welcome and are urged to contact Iris Hillery, branch secretary on 07919 344845 for further details.