AN Exeter church is taking time out for its own £1.3m fund raising efforts to hold an event to raise funds for West-Devon-based charity RAPID-UK. The Mint Methodist Church in Fore Street, Exeter is probably one of the most vibrant churches in the city and is in the middle of a £1.3m redevelopment scheme. But church members agreed the church should remain outward-looking and has decided to hold a service to raise funds for RAPID-UK, the search and rescue charity. Bryan Blackmar, a member of the church is also a founder member of RAPID-UK. The service will be held on Sunday July 23, at 10.30am, followed by coffee and lunch and is open to all. Other local churches and faiths have also been invited. Graham Payne, Director and founder member of RAPID-UK, will address the congregation during the service. Following the service visitors can see displays and videos showing the work of RAPID-UK, see how equipment works and meet some of the specially trained RAPID-UK search and rescue dogs. Barry Sessions of RAPID-UK, will talk to the children about the charity?s work. Car parking is available near the Mint at Mary Arches Street. RAPID-UK is supported solely by donations from the public and all its members are volunteers. The charity operates both abroad and in the UK in the search and rescue of casualties following major disasters.
