A YEAR to remember — Operation Sunshine give thanks to everyone who has helped the charity shine during 2008.

Volunteers of the Tavistock and South West charity have expressed their thanks to everyone who has helped them deliver more 40ft containers to Africa in 2008 than ever before.

Maureen Bridge, secretary for the local branch of Operation Sunshine, said how grateful the charity was to everyone who has helped give money, gifts and their time throughout the year.

She said: 'By the end of 2008 we had sent seven 40ft containers to Africa — three to Zimbabwe, three to different parts of Zambia and one to Tanzania. This is more than ever before. We thank all who have helped Operation Sunshine.'

Operation Sunshine sends much needed clothing, food, medical equipment, tools, sewing machines, blankets, soap, toiletries, and other necessities to Africa, and elsewhere for those in need.

Goods received by the local branch are sorted at Hurdwick Farm, where they are stored, waiting loading and shipment. Other groups and individuals work at home, collecting, washing, mending, sewing, knitting, and repairing items.

Fostina from Kachele Village in Zambia said in a letter to the charity after receiving one of the 40ft containers: 'We have no words to use to express our thanks for what you did for the community around Kachele Village. Blessed are your hands that worked hard to get the money to buy our Mill.' Sadly Fostina died in her sleep on August 19, 2008.

Pastor David Y Nkhoma, Misisi Project, Chawama, Zambia, said in a letter: 'I would like you to know that the donations you made to Misisi Project were given to more than 150 people who include orphans, widows and the most vulnerable people.

'The fabrics, a sewing machine, the two knitting machines and other craft materials were retained for the women's knitting group.'

David Philpott, treasurer for Operation Sunshine, said: 'The decline in the value of sterling has increased the shipment prices significantly, but the goods roll in, and the requirements in Africa don't diminish.

'While a number of most welcome and generous special donations have been wonderfully encouraging, our regular supporting groups have also been most generous. Our heartfelt thanks for both.'

Many events are planned for 2009 to continue the charity's work. Anyone who would like to receive Operation Sunshine's newsletter should email their details to [email protected]">[email protected]