SHOPPERS at The Co-operative's family of businesses in Tavistock and Okehampton have shown their charitable side this Christmas with donations amounting to over £700 for Mencap raised during two recent fundraising events.

The two Co-operative food stores, and the Britannia branch in Tavistock, took part in the town's annual Dickensian event, and raised more than £400 by raffling a hamper and inviting donations at their stands offering mulled wine and Truly Irresistible mince pies.

The Co-operative food store in Okehampton raised £300 during an Edwardian event by holding a cake sale and hosting Father Christmas in store.

Gareth Dempster, membership officer for The Co-operative in the Tavistock and Okehampton area, said: 'We have been working all year to support Mencap, our charity of the year, and while our family of businesses have done a fantastic job of organising events, such as these in Tavistock and Okehampton, we really want to thank our customers for their continued support and generosity for a very worthwhile cause.

'The money raised for Mencap will be used for projects supporting young people with learning disabilities throughout 2012.'