Direct Support Ukraine is the brain child of Tim and Lainey Powell from the Horse Inn, Hurstpierpoint. The idea is to raise money to be able to buy and supply direct new urgently required medical supplies for the brave people of Ukraine. Tim has already secured free trucks to enable deliveries to go direct to Poland and Ukraine; making sure that every penny donated is actually received (huge thanks to the Haulage Association). Discussions are on-going with manufacturers and wholesalers to obtain bulk discounts. They have set up a new bank account for donations to fill the first truck which will cost approximately £50,000. The funds are to be monitored and managed by a chartered accountant. Donations can be made to: White Horse Inn Hurst Limited (Direct Support Ukraine) Sort code 01-01-23, Account No 16088875. There are also donation boxes in many businesses in Hurst.

“We would like to thank the following people who are already helping us fundraise,” Lainey explained. Sue Negus - Mary Kay Beauty and Jackie Flowers Posh Threads are donating 10% of their sales to the fund. Jo Bowles of Maison B is running a raffle in both her shops, all monies raised are being donated. Alex and Andy of Morleys Bistro are donating £1 for every Expresso Martini sold. “In just over a week we have already raised £10,000.”

If you can help in any way, be it fund raising or supply chain management, please call Gill Blackburn on 07748 630316. Email horseinnhurst@outlook.com for more information.