THE sale of Easter chicks has seen Sid Valley Rotary Club raise an unexpected £1,933 for Children’s Hospice South West.

The exercise has been hailed as a ‘wonderful community success story’ by organisers after it exceeded all expectations.

Volunteers knitted the chicks and a supply of accompanying chocolate eggs came from many other people. Rotarians had originally hoped to raise £750 for the charity.

“Thanks to the enormous kindness and generosity of everyone involved, the final total is almost three times that amount,” said the club’s Chris Pink. “The auction of five pairs of chicks at Sidmouth Garden Centre contributed to the total.”

Sid Valley Rotary Club have fundraised for Children’s Hospice South West throughout the year and its efforts have helped the cause to continue offering support and respite for families where children’s lives have been affected by serious illnesses.

Because the Easter Chick fundraising has involved so many people from all over East Devon, Rotary has contacted the hospice and is in negotiation about buying some special items of equipment.

Sid Valley Rotary Club members have thanked everyone concerned for their hard work and generosity.