Young people in Bridgwater will soon benefit from a donation given to WestCan by former Bridgwater Mayor, Cllr Diogo Rodrigues.

During Cllr Rodrigues’ year in office as Mayor of Bridgwater he held a number of popular fundraising events which would go towards youth services in the town.

Events included quiz nights at local pubs, a Halloween haunted evening at Bridgwater Town Hall and a series of themed dinner evenings at The Purplespoon Cafe.

When his year in office came to end the pennies and pounds were counted and in total there was around £2,000 available to donate towards programmes that would benefit young people.

Cllr Rodrigues, who left the Labour Party in July this year and is now an independent councillor, said he was delighted with the amount raised.

“I’m so grateful to the people that came along to these events, who took part and donated money to give something to our young people.

“It wouldn’t have been possible without them or the collaboration of key people including Kate at Purplespoon.”

Of the £2,000, £700 has been donated to the Bridgwater Youth Council for the young people to decide what that money could best be spent on.

Diogo added: “Our young people are well placed to decided collectively how best they feel other young people can benefit from this money and I am confident that they will find a meaningful programme or cause to support.”

Following discussions with Megan Boucher, the Children, Youth and Family Leader at WestCan, Diogo has donated the remaining £1,300 to Westfield Church towards a ‘Fit & Fed’ programme.

The programme aims to provide a service during the school holidays which will encourage physical well-being and activity as well as providing a healthy meal for children/young people who may usually be dependent on free school meals.

Megan said: “Holidays and school breaks can be a tricky time for families - especially if they are already facing financial difficulties.

“We wanted to develop a programme that would be accessible and inclusive to everyone, whilst enabling children and young people to access a free, healthy activity and meal through the holidays.

“We are delighted to receive this money to help fund a pilot programme and we are looking forward to partnering with others in the community who are doing a great job of supporting local families.”

For anyone wanting further information about the programme contact WestCan at the Church Office in West Street, call 01278 447153 or visit westcan.co.uk.