A MYSTERY benefactor has pledged to give away a small fortune to good causes in Sidmouth – without anyone ever knowing their identity.

The elderly resident – who wants to remain anonymous and be known only as The Quiet Philanthropist – will hand out £1,000-a-month through the Herald.

The person 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.

“I believe in doing good by stealth,” they said. “A lot of people give money and like their name to be on it – I just want to be anonymous.”

Stunned staff at Sidmouth Hospiscare were the first recipients of the money last Wednesday when Herald content editor Stefan Gordon called by with £1,176 in cash.

The Quiet Philanthropist, a ‘wealthy’ widower or widow who lives on their own, says money has been put aside for their family to be provided for and they want to give the rest of their fortune away - or it would end up going to the Government.

“I’m doing some good with it rather than it going into the exchequer’s coffers and being swallowed up,” said the pensioner.

“I would rather see it benefit local charities.

“I’ve enjoyed making money in the past and just want to do something which I feel is useful with it.

“It has all come from being careful and living within our means.

“I will be able to maintain this for quite a long time.”

The benefactor plans to hand money out for at least a year.

Sidmouth Hospiscare clinical nurse specialist Julie Morris said of the surprise donation: “It’s a bit of a shock, but a nice one.

“I think it is wonderful. It is a lovely thing to give that amount of money and not want to take any credit.

“It is a shame we can’t thank them, but we can do it through the Herald.

“The money will go into the pot and help us care for patients and their relatives.”

Office manager Carrie Machin added: “We’re absolutely thrilled. It is unusual, but we sincerely thank whoever this person is.

“The money will be put to good use.”