Uckfield pub raises funds in memory of Private Daniel Gamble

Plans for a fun day at an Uckfield pub turned into a marathon two-day fund-raising event for charity in memory of local hero Private Daniel Gamble.

Daniel was killed in Afghanistan two years ago and shops and businesses responded generously when asked to donate raffle prizes for the Help the Heroes event organised by the Highlands Inn.

Manager Stuart Manchester said nearly £3,300 has been raised so far but fund-raising is continuing.

It all began on Saturday with special activities to attract children including a bouncy castle and chance to look around a fire engine, police CCTV van and ex-military vehicles.

That evening there was a disco with a fancy dress military theme, then on Sunday there was a raffle and auction.

Stuart said: “We have held family fun days for the past two years but this year thought we would like to raise funds for charity.

“A lot of our staff know the Gamble family and really threw themselves into the event. They went into shops in town asking for goods to be donated and made phone calls too. The response was staggering.

“We were very pleased to have raised so much. That is a fantastic amount.”

£3,000 of the total raised will go to Help the Heroes and the remainder will go to the Daniel Gamble Memorial Fund, said Stuart.

Our picture was taken by Ron Hill.

(Added to site Thursday, September 2nd, 2010)