YOUNGSTERS who can’t afford to take part in certain leisure activities can apply for financial help through an initiative set up in memory of a former Topsham police officer.
Members of The Mark Marshall Youth Fund committee are now inviting applications from young people aged between 10 and 25 who are a resident in the Exeter area.
The fund is available to support people who wish to undertake a constructive leisure activity such as an expedition or camping but cannot finance it from their own resources.
Mark, who was also a member of the Territorial Army, was killed in an explosion while on foot patrol in Afghanistan last February.
Sue Wright, a trustee of the fund, of White Street, Topsham, said anyone interested in applying should complete a short application form which is available from PCSO Percy Giles at Heavitree Road Police Station.
“There will then be an interview with trustees of the fund and grants will be made to successful applicants,” said Sue.
PCSO Giles, a friend and former colleague of Mark’s, said people must explain in their application whether or not they have explored other funding options in order to carry out a certain activity.
Around �100 will be awarded to each successful applicant.
“We, the trustees of the fund, want to support people with their activities. The money can be used for just about any type of thing,” he said.
“For instance, if some youngster came up to us and said they wanted the money to start a new football team, then the money could be used for a kit.”
Mark often worked with youths during his time as a police community support officer.
He was a member of the team that ran the Eastside Project, a Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme held in Topsham.
The project had the sole purpose of giving those with less opportunities in life a helping hand to gain the bronze and silver awards.
The fund was set up by his family and friends as a lasting legacy. For more information on the initiative, call PCSO Percy Giles on 08452 777 444 or email percy.giles@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk
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