LONG-serving fundraiser for the Soldiers’ and Airmen’s Scripture Readers Association, Gilbert Bond was presented with a framed certificate of appreciation at Ashton-under-Hill Free Church on Monday.

The presentation was made by SASRA are representative, Matthew Glass, who said Mr Bond had been the local Drum Secretary for over 25 years during which time her had done sterling work for the association.

He pointed out that SASRA was entirely dependent on donations from the public in order to continue with the work of taking the Gospel to soldiers and airmen serving throughout the world.

Mr Bond, of Cambria Road, Evesham, and himself a World War II army veteran, has retired and has been succeeded as Drum Secretary for the area by Jacob Dent, of Great Comberton, a member of the Pershore ATC, who is also a member of Ashton-under-Hill Free Church.