DISTRICT councillors are encouraging people and organisations to contribute toward an appeal to raise funds to help rebuild devastated areas in Alberta, Canada.

The call – in view of the parish of Liphook and Bramshott’s close links with the Canadian Armed Forces in both World Wars – came following the massive wildfire in Fort McMurray last month.

Councillors Bill Mouland, Angela Glass and Rebecca Standish have requested that the parish council acts as the co-ordinator of the appeal locally, collecting the funds, so a cheque can be presented to the Canadian High Commissioner, or his representative, at this year’s Canada Day service on June 29.

In addition, the Bramshott open gardens committee has agreed to make a contribution to the appeal, from any funds raised over this weekend.

A mandatory evacuation on May 1 forced all 70,000 Fort McMurray residents to leave their homes in search of safety – the largest fire-related evacuation in the province’s history with a total of 522,992 hectares affected.

Plans have now been made for residents to return to Fort McMurray later this month, after first assessing all possible risks.

The Canadian Red Cross immediately launched an appeal to help the community by providing immediate assistance and relief. To donate, call the parish council on 01428 722988 or e-mail council@bramshottand liphook-pc.gov.uk.