Mid Suffolk new Chair selects Stowmarket Relief Trust as charity

He succeeds Cllr Dan Pratt following a vote at the Annual Council Meeting last week, stepping up from his previous role as vice-chair which he served for the last year. Cllr Lorraine Baker was elected as Vice Chair.

One of the functions of the incoming Chair, alongside the civic and ceremonial duties, is to select a charity and arrange fundraising activities throughout their term of office- with Cllr Scarff choosing Stowmarket Relief Trust.

He said: “Stowmarket Relief Trust works tirelessly with our partners such as Citizens Advice, health professionals and others to support some of the most vulnerable in society in the communities of Stowmarket and the immediately adjoining villages. 

“It provides assistan with replacement white goods, carpets, beds and many others at a time when most needed by residents, it is an honour to have witnessed their work in the community and to also serve as ones of their trustees.

“My fundraising during my term of office will hopefully assist the Trust to continue that great work.”

David Palk, Chair of the trustees of the Stowmarket Relief Trust said:
“We are delighted that the Stowmarket Relief Trust has been selected as the Chair’s chosen charity, our thanks to Cllr Scarf for choosing us.

“Like many charities we rely on voluntary donations for our income, and this will make a difference, not just in raising funds but also raising awareness of the services we offer to those in need of support. 

“The Stowmarket Relief Trust was founded in 1523 and currently helps about 100 families per year. Since the pandemic, we’ve noticed a large increase in the number of vulnerable people and families in the region and so demand for our services is increasing. It provides goods, services and facilities to those facing need, hardship and distress.”