The Quiet Philanthropist strikes again

A MYSTERY pensioner has chosen Sidmouth Voluntary Services as the second recipient of their monthly £1,000 giveaway – leaving its leaders delighted.

The self-styled Quiet Philanthropist will hand out a small fortune to good causes through the Herald - without anyone ever knowing their identity.

And the elderly resident chose the Twyford House-based charity for the ‘fine job’ it does for the community.

The philanthropist praised the volunteer-driven services provided that include transport, such as lifts to and from medical appointments, minibus trips to supermarkets and subsidised lunches.

“Sidmouth residents may not be aware of these services because they are active and possess their own transport,” said the benefactor.

“The volunteers who provide the SVS services do an outstanding job and show concern. They have an excellent attitude to mainly the elderly and less able section of the population. Their enthusiasm and dedication is to be applauded.

“They do a really good job in Sidmouth and they can be seen to be helping people.”

Hilary Hatherley, chairman of SVS, and colleagues were thrilled to receive £1,198 in cash delivered by Herald content editor Stefan Gordon.

Hilary said: “Our outgoings exceed our incomes by a huge amount and we like to keep our prices low. This donation is absolutely wonderful.”

Her message to the philanthropist was: “We thank you so sincerely – it’s more than welcome.”

The charity is always on the lookout for drivers and other volunteers. The mystery benefactor is carrying out the incredible gesture because they want to see their money in the pockets of needy local causes, and not in the hands of the taxman.