The energy and enthusiasm of Welsh churchgoers have helped the Presbyterian Church of Wales (PCW) raise nearly £250,000 (€318,000) for Sierra Leone.
A cheque for £244,609 was presented to Christian Aid during a jazz night in Aberystwyth this month to celebrate the success of PCW’s appeal for the world’s poorest country.
Contributions through the Gift Aid scheme have yet to be processed but could add £30,000 to this figure.
A big thanks
Rev John Owen from the PCW said that the sum had exceeded all expectations. ‘I have to congratulate our church members on their generosity and hard work,’ he said.
Jeff Williams, national secretary for Christian Aid in Wales added: ‘We’re very grateful to the members of the Presbyterian Church of Wales for responding so readily to the appeal.
‘A quarter of a million pounds is a very honourable sum and the money will be a huge boost to our campaign to tackle poverty and injustice in Sierra Leone.’