A PLEA to 'needy spinsters and widows' in Tavistock was issued during a meeting in the town last week.

Town clerk Roger Howard told parishioners at the annual town meeting that the Jessie Ann Alford trust, administered by the council, receives around £350 to £400 per year in interest on its funds, which are distributed by the council each year.

Mrs Alford was a widow and resident of Tavistock. She and her late husband had been prominent and philanthropic members of the community, including being involved with the social security system of the time.

After her death in the 1940s, she gifted a sum of money to the then Urban District Council, which set up a trust in her name to distribute it among eight widows and spinsters of Tavistock each year, just before Christmas.

Col Howard said: 'Last year we only had three applicants for a grant, and the trustees exceptionally awarded them each £200.

'If you know of any deserving spinsters or widows, do let them know that the Jessie Ann charity can give them a little Christmas present this year.'

Anyone who would like information on how to apply for a grant from the trust should call Tavistock Town Council on 01822 613529.