Okehampton District Round Table has launched a fundraiser to support a fellow member who sustained life-changing injuries in a hit-and-run collision, earlier this month.

Forty-one-year-old Matt Retter was out running near his home in Hatherleigh last week when he was involved in a hit-and-run collision near Venton Cross and Church Lane. Matt sustained serious injuries and is now facing a long journey to recovery.

The event has hit the Okehampton Round Table hard as Matt had been heavily involved in the group’s work. The group has now set up a Just Giving fundraiser with the aim of raising at least £4,000 to support Matt’s new wife and family while he is unable to work. The money will also go towards providing specialist care, equipment and any other support he might need during his recovery and rehabilitation.

Chris Brown-Martin, from the Round Table, said: “Matt has spent years giving his time to help other people and our local community. He’s helped us with the Santa Sleigh and has been one of those people who will simply turn up and get stuck in when you need him.

“Seeing what Matt and Sarah are going through, particularly just a week after getting married, is heartbreaking.

“Matt has helped us put smiles on so many people’s faces over the years. Now it’s our turn to stand behind him and Sarah. We hope people will donate whatever they can, but even just sharing the appeal can make a huge difference.”

Matt regularly volunteered with the Christmas Santa Sleigh, helped with the local carnival and annual tar barrel, and in 2013, was part of a team that took on the incredible challenge of kayaking around the South West, helping to raise more than £12,500 for charity.

Devon and Cornwall Police have confirmed that a 43-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of numerous offences in connection with the collision, including causing serious injury by dangerous driving, failing to stop after a road accident, driving while unfit through drugs and driving without insurance.

He has been released on police bail while enquiries continue.