COUNCILLOR Bill Mouland’s appeal for contributions to the Canadian Red Cross, following the forest fires in Alberta earlier this year, raised more than £2,000 which will be matched by the Canadian government.

Mr Mouland said: “Community groups and individuals raised more than £1,200 and members of East Hampshire District Council unanimously agreed to donate £1,000.”

In a letter addressed to Bramshott and Liphook Parish Council, Alan Kessel, Deputy High Commissioner of the Canadian Embassy, in London, thanked those who made donations to the Fort McMurray Fire appeal, including St Mary’s Church, Liphook Junior School, Bramshott Open Gardens, Liphook Carnival Committee, the Preservation Society, the Conservative Association, the parish council, as well as all individuals.

He said: “The close connection between Canada and the villages of Bramshott and Liphook is celebrated each year on Candada Day. The opportunity to remember the Canadians who are buried in St Mary’s churchyard, to break bread with friends from the village and be entertained and captivated by the talent of the children of Liphook Junior School is exceptional and unique in the UK.

“We could have seen no better modern expression of this connection than the very generous donations to the Red Cross for the Fort McMurray Fire appeal. It is touching your community has come together in such a tangible way to help Canadians in their time of need.

“I am sure every penny you have donated will be used to help rebuild the Fort McMurray community that was destroyed by the fire. Your friendship and kindness at this time of need is appreciated and deeply moving.”